It’s the first week of May, and you know what that means! Not only is it time to enjoy the chirping birds, rising temperatures and blooming tulips, but Cinco de Mayo is almost upon us. This celebration of Mexican culture and heritage—officially to commemorate the Mexican army’s defeat of the French at the Battle of Puebla in 1862—calls for family, food, music and beloved traditions galore.
Are you planning on hosting your own special Cinco de Mayo celebration? Make sure your party is a great time for partygoers by making sure your home is clean, safe and ready for guests.
Here are four ways to make sure your home is accident-proof before your upcoming party. Don’t forget to set aside some time to compare homeowners insurance quotes so you know your policy is up for the task of entertaining a large crowd; if something does go wrong, you don’t want to be on the hook for your fiesta turning into a disaster.
Clean Up Clutter
Your home doesn’t have to look like a magazine spread, but it helps to clean up clutter well before guests arrive. If your guests have to navigate a cluttered space full of sharp corners, toe-stubbing hazards and slippery fabrics underfoot, the likelihood of an accident is much higher. Pay special attention to hallways, communal spaces (like the living room and kitchen) and bathrooms.
If any messes occur during the party, clean them up promptly. Position streamers, balloons, flowers and piñatas out of harm’s way so they add festive cheer without obstructing people’s movement.
Make Off-Limits Areas Clear
Your guest list likely includes your best friends who could navigate the layout of your house in their sleep, but friends of friends and first-time guests may not know which rooms are off-limits for partygoers. Whether your rambunctious dog is hiding behind door number three or you’re using your spare room as a catchall for years’ worth of stuff, you need to clearly label and lock every door that’s a no-go for attendees.
Avoid Glass Dishware
It’s Cinco de Mayo, so everyone is looking forward to sipping an ice-cold margarita or agua fresco and enjoying the sunny weather. When you serve your guests their thirst-quencher of choice, make sure the cups aren’t highly breakable. All it takes is one shattered cup near bare feet to require a trip to the emergency room. At the very least, avoid tippable shapes like upright margarita glasses.
If a piece of glass does break, you can use a piece of bread to clean up the shards after safety disposing of the larger chunks. Sweep or vacuum the area thoroughly afterward.
Drinking? Collect Car Keys
Cinco de Mayo is a time to celebrate, but not on the road. If your guests plan on having a few, shall we say, adult beverages at your party, collect their keys and make sure only sober guests get behind the wheel. Not only are you being a good friend or family member, but you may be sparing yourself from costly liability.
As Nolo writes, some states have social host liability laws, meaning that “a person who hosts a social event may be on the legal hook for injuries if they provide alcohol to a guest who causes an alcohol-related accident after drinking to the point of intoxication.”
Before you can let the good times roll this Cinco de Mayo, make sure your home is ready for guests by accident-proofing to the max. You want your gathering to be memorable for all the right reasons.
Part of any home safety plan is underlying liability coverage. CoverHound can help you compare homeowners insurance quotes to find the best fit for now and the future. Explore your policy options today!
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