Holiday Safety

It may be the most wonderful time of the year, but that doesn’t stop holiday related injuries. Here’s how you and your children can have a fun and safe season.

DECORATION DOS

Keep the trimmings safe by watering real trees regularly to avoid fires (or consider a fake tree) and place breakable ornaments and ones with metal hooks up top, with kid-friendly ones below. Check lights for exposed wires, loose connections or broken sockets. Battery-oper­ated candles are a safer alternative to the real variety, which present a fire hazard.

FESTIVE FETES

If children are helping with the holiday cooking, never leave the stove top or oven unattended when they are present. Prevent burns and spills by using the back burners of your stove. Turn pot handles away from the edge. Poinsettias, holly and other plants commonly used as decorations can be poisonous if ingested. Keep the National Poison Center number (1-800- 222-1222) easily available. 

TOY TIPS

Keep gifts age appropriate when purchasing a toy or game. Don’t forget safety equipment, such as a helmet and pads, for new bikes, scooters, skateboards or skis. Keep an eye on small parts that are easy to swallow, especially button batteries which are included in most electronic toys. Check websites, such as the Consumer Product Safety Commission (cpsc.gov), for updated recall information.

 

Here’s to a safe and stress-free holiday season!