The holidays are meant for celebration, not stress — but between crowded kitchens, winter weather, and festive decorations, seasonal gatherings can quickly turn into emergencies. From burst pipes to kitchen fires, holiday mishaps are more common than you might think.
Knowing what to watch for — and how to respond — can help minimize damage and keep your season on track.
Here’s a guide to the most common holiday disasters and what to do if they happen.
Kitchen Fires: When Cooking Gets Out of Hand
Holiday meals put kitchens under serious pressure. Grease fires, unattended stovetops, and overloaded ovens are leading causes of seasonal house fires.
What to do:
- Turn off the heat source immediately if it’s safe.
- Smother small grease fires with a lid or baking soda — never water.
- If flames spread, evacuate and call emergency services.
Pro Tip: Keep a fire extinguisher within reach and assign a “kitchen monitor” during big gatherings.
Even minor kitchen fires can lead to major smoke damage. Learn more here: How Small Kitchen Fires Lead to Major Smoke Damage
Burst Pipes and Plumbing Overflows
Cold temperatures, extra guests, and heavy water usage can overwhelm your plumbing system. Frozen or burst pipes and toilet overflows are especially common during holiday travel.
What to do:
- Shut off the main water supply as soon as possible.
- Avoid using electrical devices near standing water.
- Call a professional restoration service to prevent structural damage and mold growth.
Pro Tip: Let faucets drip during cold snaps and know where your main shut-off valve is located.
For more on frozen pipe prevention, read our guide: Winter Weather Warning: How to Protect Your Home from Frozen Pipe Bursts
Electrical Hazards and Overloaded Circuits
Decorative lights, extension cords, and added appliances can overload electrical systems, leading to sparks or fires.
What to do:
- Unplug decorations if you notice flickering lights or burning smells.
- Avoid daisy-chaining extension cords.
- Replace damaged cords immediately.
Pro Tip: Use surge protectors and LED holiday lights, which generate less heat.
Want more tips on holiday light safety? We’ve got you covered: Why Holiday Lights Cause House Fires — and Simple Ways to Stay Safe
Weather-Related Water Damage
Snow, ice, and winter storms can cause roof leaks, ice dams, or basement flooding — often while homeowners are away.
What to do:
- Clear snow from roofs and gutters when safe.
- Address leaks quickly to prevent long-term damage.
- Schedule professional drying and repairs right away.
Pro Tip: Make sure your home is prepped for winter weather, and have someone check your home if you’re traveling during the holidays.
Not sure if your home is winter-ready? Follow our guide for more details: Is Your Home Winter-Ready? Avoid Frozen Pipes and Fire Hazards
Act Fast When Damage Happens
When fire or water damage strikes, quick action is critical. 24 Hour Flood Pros provides rapid-response emergency fire and water damage restoration services to help protect your home, belongings, and peace of mind — day or night, even on holidays.
Don’t Let One Mishap Ruin the Holidays!
Seasonal disasters may be common, but lasting damage doesn’t have to be. With a little prevention and a trusted restoration partner like 24 Hour Flood Pros, you can handle holiday emergencies swiftly and get back to celebrating what matters most.
