As we get closer to Christmas and New Year's Day, we thought we'd pass along some holiday safety tips to keep your family and Louisville home safe and happy this holiday season. Let's start with the Christmas tree. If you're buying a live tree this year, make sure that you do the following:

• Buy a fresh tree with needles that bend and are not easy to pull out.
• Keep the base of the tree immersed in water at all times to keep it as fresh as possible and give your Louisville home that great piney smell.

Check all your strands of lights for frayed ends, exposed wires or cuts. For all trees, make sure to remember these things:

• Use only indoor light strands on your tree.
• Don't overload outlets by plugging in multiple power strips or extension cords.

Also, bear in mind that thieves can be as busy during the holiday season as you are! Follow these tips to make your Louisville home less attractive to thieves:

• Vary your daily routine as much as possible and practical.
• Leave a TV or radio on, and use timers on lamps (remember to adjust these every few days).

Never post that you're going to be out of town on your Facebook page or any other social media outlets. ·    Ask trusted neighbors, friends or family members to housesit or stop by frequently while you're away. All of us at Louisville Properties want to wish you and yours a very safe and happy holiday season. If you're thinking about buying or selling a Louisville home, please give us a call at 502.744.9504 or fill out one of our contact forms for a fast reply! Happy Holidays everyone!