5 Tips for Christmas Pets and Home

The Christmas season is a time of joy, celebration, and spending time with loved ones. At Synergy Credit Union, we want to help ensure your holidays are filled with peace and happiness. While you’re decking the halls, shopping for gifts, and preparing festive feasts, take a moment to review these tips to keep your home, family, and finances safe this Christmas.

1. Protect Your Home While You’re Out and About

Christmas Time  often brings busy days filled with shopping, visiting family, and attending events. If your house will be unattended, take a few precautions:

Secure all doors and windows: Even during the day, ensure everything is locked.

Keep gifts out of sight: Avoid placing presents where they’re visible from windows.

Use timers for lights: A well-lit house gives the impression that someone’s home.

See Tips from our Insurance partners Allianz here : Home Hazards and Safety Tips

2. Keep the Christmas Cheer Fire-Free

Festive decorations like twinkling lights and scented candles create a magical atmosphere, but they can pose safety risks if not handled carefully:

Check your Christmas lights for wear and tear: Replace any broken bulbs or frayed wires or replace with LEDs.

Don’t overload sockets: Use surge protectors and follow manufacturer guidelines.

Blow out candles: Always extinguish candles before leaving a room or going to bed.

See our member discounted House Insurance for peace of mind: House Insurance Discount 

3. Watch Out for Online Scams

Holiday shopping often moves online, but it’s crucial to shop smart:

Shop on trusted websites: Look for secure URLs that begin with “https.”

Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true: Scammers often prey on bargain hunters.

Monitor your accounts: Keep an eye on your bank and credit union accounts for unusual activity.

See out fraud aware tips here : Fraud Aware Tips 

4. Show Your Pets Some Christmas Love

Pets are part of the family and deserve a safe, happy Christmas too:

Secure decorations: Keep ornaments, tinsel, and string lights out of reach of curious pets.

Avoid toxic foods: Chocolate, mince pies, and even some festive plants like poinsettias can be harmful to animals.

Create a quiet space: If you’re hosting guests, make sure your pet has a calm retreat to escape the excitement.

Check out Pet Insurance here : Pet Insurance with A Discount

5. Plan Your Christmas Finances Wisely

The season of giving doesn’t have to mean financial stress. Here’s how to stay on top of your budget:

Make a spending plan: Decide how much you’ll spend on gifts, food, and decorations and stick to it.

Consider a Synergy CU loan: Our affordable loans can help you manage holiday expenses without breaking the bank.

Start saving for next Christmas: Open a dedicated savings account now for a stress-free 2025 holiday season.

At Synergy Credit Union, we’re here to support you through every season. Whether you need financial advice, a personal loan, or just a little inspiration to make the most of the holidays, we’re always happy to help.

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