When you agree to host a holiday get-together, potential safety hazards might be the last thing on your mind. Unfortunately, there are numerous things that can go wrong during a Christmas party, from unexpected assaults to life-threatening falls. Keep your guests safe as they munch on cookies and hum carols by following the 3 practical tips below.
Investigate Santa
Children will squeal with joy as a jolly man bellows, "Ho ho ho!" during your party -- unless that costumed man happens to be a felon. Run a thorough background check before hiring a stranger to dress up as Santa for your party, or request a festive figure from a reputable agency that performs a detailed check for you. Ask to see an ID card when Santa arrives at your party, and don't hesitate to send him home if anything seems fishy. If you accidentally book a costumed man who is violent, injured guests can file a personal injury claim against you.
Handle Food Safely
As hungry guests begin grumbling about the long wait for food, you may be tempted to pull your appetizers and entrees out of the oven a bit early. Be careful, though, because a guest can sue you if they can prove that they got food poisoning from your negligence. Don't leave perishable dips and spreads out for more than 2 hours, and make sure that you don't chop veggies or slice fruit on the same cutting board where you prepared raw meat.
Sprinkle Rock Salt Outside
Slipping on an ice-covered driveway may not seem that serious, but it can result in broken bones, sprained ligaments, and serious head injuries. If a guest falls on an icy driveway or patio that you have not attempted to treat with rock salt, a judge might feel the accident is your fault. Sprinkle generous amounts of rock salt on all of the ice-covered areas that surround your home, and consider having someone walk elderly or disabled guests inside to prevent accidents from occurring.
It's fun to mingle with friends and family members during a holiday bash, but don't let your guard down during the party. Take steps to ensure that all of your visitors have a safe place to gather this holiday season, and don't skip any important precautions. If an accident does occur on your premises, don't assume that a loved one won't file a lawsuit against you. Immediately hire a personal injury attorney, like Sharkey Gregory V Attorney, so that you can handle the situation effectively.
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