Over the colder months, different safety challenges present themselves for vacation rental owners and property managers. You can use this checklist to help ensure winter guests enjoy a safe and memorable time within your property.
Over the colder months, different safety challenges present themselves for vacation rental owners and property managers. You can use this checklist to help ensure winter guests enjoy a safe and memorable time within your property.
Check that pool or spa covers are in use and functioning properly. Please review your local regulations to verify requirements for pool/spa covers, fences, and gates. Also check to be sure that safety information such as emergency phone numbers, spa rules, and CPR instructions is clearly posted.
Carbon monoxide detectors save lives and may be required by your local laws — double check to ensure yours is properly installed and working properly. Learn more about carbon monoxide safety.
Re-testing smoke alarms prior to a guest’s stay can be the key to fire prevention. Cooking is a leading cause of residential fires — but space heaters, fireplaces, and candles may also become a risk. So it’s recommended that fire extinguishers are conveniently placed. Get more information on fire safety here.
If a storm is forecasted prior to a stay, communicate the latest information from local authorities and emergency services to your guests. If you need to change or cancel upcoming reservations, please let travelers know ASAP, or contact customer service for help. Conditions may become hazardous during a storm , so ensure you have left clear instructions for travelers about where they can find items like flashlights, batteries, first-aid kits, or extra salt for ice. Ensure your listing is updated with local emergency phone numbers, and that they are clearly posted in your rental.
This list of winter safety procedures is a good starting point, but it’s not comprehensive. You can visit weather.gov/winter for more information on keeping your guests safe and your vacation rental protected during colder months.
And after you’ve added enhanced safety features, don’t forget to update your listing to let travelers know you offer them!
