Does a guest booking a holiday at Christmas want Christmas decorations up?
Decorations are a huge part of the holiday season and can add character and cosiness to a trip away, although we can’t answer whether a guest absolutely wants them.
If you do decide to decorate your holiday let at Christmas, have you thought about whether the decorations you’re leaving up could pose an additional health and safety risk?
We know you work so hard to make your FHLs perfect for each and every booking. Christmas just needs a little extra consideration to keep guests safe.
Here are 10 health and safety tips to ensure your Christmas decorations don’t ruin someone else’s Christmas:

Check your Christmas tree:
Is not obstructing any escape routes.
Is firmly secured so it cannot be toppled over.
Has baubles that are not easily breakable, or potential choking hazards for young guests.

Before reusing lights, give them a quick check:
Do the lights have a British Safety Kitemark or a CE Safety Standards mark?
Check for bulb, wire or plug damage and dispose of properly if any defects.

Is your FRA updated for Christmas?
Never place decorations near a heat source. It’s a cosy look to have stockings up at the chimney, or a garland on the mantle but not if you know the fireplace or wood burner is going to be used.
Check your decorations are flame resistant or flame retardant
As part of your Fire Risk Assessment, and the new fire regs, candles are very much discouraged in FHLS. Don’t leave any as decorations. Consider battery operated candles instead.

Involve your guests.
It’s their responsibility to behave responsibly.
Consider including a Christmas edit to your welcome book ensuring guests know not to bring or light candles, and to turn off any Christmas lights before going to bed or leaving the house.