It’s the holiday season. That means family, gifts, food, fun, and an increased risk of accidents both inside and outside your home.
Be safe this year and protect both yourself and the ones you love by following some of our holiday safety tips and warnings.
Holiday Lights
Christmas time brings incredible displays of holiday lights and decor. But those same lights that leave us ooo-ing and ah-ing can also lead to some very dangerous situations. We recommend the following safety tips.
Inspect your lights and look for frayed wires, gaps in the insulation and broken plugs.
Never link more than 3 strands of lights together.
Unplug all of your holiday lights before retiring for the evening.
Only use lights that have been tested and labeled as safe.
Hire a professional to hang your outdoor lights to prevent possible falls and injuries.
Use an outdoor extension cord for your outdoor lights.
Decorations
Christmas Trees
Only use flame retardant decorations and keep them away from heat sources such as fireplaces and candles.
Make sure your fragile decorations are kept out of the reach of small children.
When an ornament breaks (and they will) be sure to clean up the broken pieces immediately.
Place your holiday candles in places where they cannot be easily knocked over.
Holiday Plants
If you use an artificial tree in your home, be sure it is labeled as flame retardant.
DO NOT decorate your tree with candles.
For those who prefer a real tree in your home, be sure the tree has been recently cut and is not dry.
Never place your Christmas tree near any heat sources such as a fireplace or furnace.
Keep your tree watered, but do not water it with your lights on.
Dispose of your tree properly and do not try to burn it in your fireplace.
Remember that poinsettias, holly berries, and mistletoe are all toxic. (Merry Christmas)
Keep your Christmas plants away from children.
Mealtime
Avoid the urge and temptation to overeat.
Drink plenty of water.
Limit your intake of alcoholic beverages.
While preparing your holiday meals, keep your pot handles out of the reach of small children.
Gifts
Be careful removing pins from new clothing.
Do not test batteries using your tongue.
Use caution when opening new gifts with scissors.
Remember this holiday season to stay safe. However, should an accident happen, your friends at Beaumont Emergency Hospital will be here ready to help. Merry Christmas from all of us.
