Deck the Halls and Do It Safely: A Holiday Home Health Guide & Quiz

The holidays are a magical time—twinkling lights, cozy gatherings, and homes filled with the scent of baked goods and evergreens. But while you’re busy decking the halls, don’t forget to take precautions to keep your home free of hazards and your family’s health protected. Musty odors don’t just compete with the sweet aromas of evergreens, they may be warning you about the presence of mold, often caused by leaks, which can throw a real wrench in all the festivities.

To help you get holiday-ready, we’ve created a fun quiz to test your knowledge about common pitfalls found in homes that might affect your health.

Will your house be a festive haven or a hidden hazard?

Let’s find out!

Holiday Home Hazards Quiz

What could a musty odor in your home indicate?

A) It’s just the charm of an older house.

B) Mold, which can trigger allergies and respiratory issues.

C) A sign your home is too dry.

D) Nothing – it’s totally normal.

Correct Answer: B) Mold, which can trigger allergies and respiratory issues.

Tip: If you notice a musty scent, it’s time to investigate. Mold doesn’t just smell bad; it can cause serious health problems and can compromise the structure of your home. Consider a professional mold inspection to keep your air fresh and your guests sneeze-free.

What common household items can release harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds) in your home’s indoor air?

A) Carpets, candles, and cleaning products.

B) Pots and pans.

C) Your holiday dinner.

D) Light bulbs.

Correct Answer: A) Carpets, candles, and cleaning products.

Tip: VOCs are invisible troublemakers that can cause headaches, fatigue, and worse. Keep your indoor air clean by choosing low-VOC products and testing your air quality. Also, dust frequently to remove particles that can cause poor indoor air quality.

How much more polluted can indoor air be compared to outdoor air?

A) 2 times

B) 10 times

C) 50 times

D) 100 times

Correct Answer: D) 100 times

Tip: Wintertime means closed windows and stale air. Regular ventilation and air quality tests can make a huge difference for your health during the colder months.

What is the primary purpose of a bathroom fan?

A) To eliminate odors.

B) To reduce excess moisture and prevent mold growth.

C) To cool down the bathroom after a hot shower.

D) To circulate warm air.

Correct Answer: B) To reduce excess moisture and prevent mold growth.

Tip: Don’t forget to clean your bathroom fan! A clean fan helps prevent damp conditions in which mold thrives.

When away from home for an extended period, why should you keep your thermostat between 55-60 degrees in winter?

A) To enjoy big savings on heating costs.

B) To prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.

C) To keep your house cozy for guests.

D) To stop frost from forming on windows.

Correct Answer: B) To prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.

Tip: Frozen pipes are a holiday nightmare. Keep your thermostat at a safe level and insulate your pipes for peace of mind. Setting your thermostat lower for a week or two won’t amount to huge savings.

How Did You Do?

5/5 Correct: Holiday Home Health Hero! You’re ready to host the healthiest holiday yet.

3-4 Correct: Festive Fixer! A little extra prep will make your home merry and bright.

0-2 Correct: Rookie Reindeer! Don’t worry, you can still turn your home into a safe, festive haven with a few quick fixes.

Top Tips for a Healthy Holiday Home

• Banish Musty Odors: Don’t let mold crash your holiday party. Keep damp areas dry, ventilate properly, and consider a mold inspection if you detect a musty smell.
• Improve Indoor Air Quality: Choose low-VOC products, ventilate regularly, and test your air quality to ensure you and your guests can breathe easy.
• Fix Leaks Promptly: Even a small leak under your sink can create a moldy mess. Check for drips and repair them quickly.
• Decorate with Care: Read labels found on holiday décor to avoid products made with lead and other toxins.
• If you are doing any DIY projects, be sure not to sand surfaces with lead-containing paint (found in homes built prior to 1979) without wearing proper equipment and carefully cleaning up afterwards.
• Clean Bathrooms Thoroughly: Shower curtains and bathmats are logical places for mold and bacteria growth. Wash them with baking soda and tea tree oil to keep them fresh and clean.

This holiday season, with a little precaution, preparation, and a lot of holiday cheer, you’ll keep your family safe, your guests comfortable, and your celebrations stress-free.

Happy Holidays from our homes to yours!