Top Holiday Safety Tips for HOA Communities

Keep your community safe, bright, and worry-free this holiday season.

The holiday season brings festive decorations, sparkling lights, and joyful gatherings—but it also brings increased safety risks for HOA communities. From electrical hazards to icy walkways and congested parking, it’s essential for HOAs to take proactive steps to protect residents and maintain a safe environment.

At Advantage Management, we help Utah HOAs create safe, well-managed communities all year long. Here are the top holiday safety tips every HOA should follow this season.

🎄 1. Establish Clear Holiday Decorating Guidelines

Holiday decorations bring cheer, but they can also create hazards.

Safety Tips:

• Encourage residents to use UL-approved, indoor/outdoor-rated lights.

• Set expectations for where decorations are allowed (e.g., balconies, doors, common areas).

• Prohibit items that block fire exits, hallways, or stairways.

• Recommend LED lights, which stay cooler and reduce fire risk.

• Clarify rules on installation and removal dates to maintain consistency.

Clear guidelines help prevent safety incidents—and reduce disputes between neighbors.

🔌 2. Prevent Electrical Hazards

Holiday lighting is beautiful, but overloaded circuits or old extension cords can be dangerous.

Electrical Safety Reminders:

• Avoid plugging multiple strands of lights into the same outlet.

• Use surge protectors instead of basic extension cords.

• Inspect lights for frayed wires or broken bulbs before installing.

• Keep outdoor cords away from walkways and damp areas.

• Advise residents not to run cords through doors or windows, which can pinch wires.

A quick safety reminder from the HOA can prevent costly accidents.

🕯️ 3. Encourage Fire-Safe Celebrations

Between holiday cooking, candles, and decorations, fire risks increase dramatically in winter.

Fire Prevention Tips:

• Recommend flameless candles instead of real ones.

• Remind residents to keep real trees watered to prevent drying and ignition.

• Ensure HOA common areas have up-to-date fire extinguishers and clear access.

• Encourage safe cooking practices—never leaving stoves or ovens unattended.

• Keep holiday décor away from heaters, fireplaces, and open flames.

Send a holiday newsletter with fire safety reminders to keep everyone alert.

❄️ 4. Prepare for Ice, Snow, and Winter Hazards

Utah winters can be unpredictable, and HOAs must ensure community areas remain safe.

Winter Prep Checklist:

• Clear snow and ice from common walkways, sidewalks, and stairs.

• Lay down salt or ice melt in high-traffic areas.

• Trim trees to prevent branches from snapping under snow weight.

• Ensure proper lighting in outdoor areas so residents can see icy patches.

• Communicate parking rules during snow removal procedures.

Being proactive prevents slips, injuries, and liability issues.

🚗 5. Provide Parking & Guest Overflow Guidelines

The holidays often mean more cars—and more opportunities for parking conflicts.

Tips for Smooth Parking:

• Remind residents of guest parking areas and permit rules.

• Encourage carpools when hosting gatherings.

• Provide signage to help guests park legally and safely.

• Clarify towing policies ahead of time to avoid disputes.

Clear communication goes a long way in reducing holiday frustrations.

🧒 6. Promote Child & Pet Safety During Community Events

Holiday community events—like lighting ceremonies or socials—bring families together.

Ensure they stay safe:

• Block off areas with cables or tripping hazards.

• Ensure pets are leashed at gatherings.

• Provide pathways clear of snow and décor for strollers and scooters.

• Use non-breakable décor in shared spaces.

Safety is essential for creating enjoyable community traditions.

⭐ Final Thoughts

The holidays should be a time of celebration, not worry. By taking simple steps to ensure safety around decorations, electrical use, winter weather, and community events, HOAs can protect residents and create a warm, welcoming environment.

At Advantage Management, we help Utah HOAs enjoy a smooth, safe, and festive holiday season through proactive communication, reliable maintenance, and expert community support.

Need help preparing your community for the holidays? Contact our team today—we’re here to make your HOA shine safely all season long.