Have a safer holiday season this year by keeping the following tips in mind!
#1 – Decorate Your Tree with Your Children in Mind.
Children are curious and will want to play with the ornaments on the tree, so you might as well be prepared.
Move the ornaments that are breakable or have metal hooks towards the top of the tree. This makes room at the bottom for ornaments that are safer for young children.
#2 – Water Your Christmas Tree Regularly.
Planning on getting a real Christmas tree this year? Plan on watering it regularly to prevent the tree from drying out and becoming a potential fire hazard (think Christmas lights + dry tree).
Make sure your tree has plenty of water by checking it regularly.
#3 – Check the Lights.
Lights are one of the best parts of holiday decorating. Take a look at the lights on your tree as well as any lights that may be in and around your home. Specifically, you want to be on the lookout for exposed or frayed wires, loose connections, or broken sockets.
#4 – Blow Out Candles; Store Matches Out of Reach.
If you have small children, it’s best to avoid lighting candles if possible. However, if you do plan to have lighted candles, keep them at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn.
Don’t forget to blow out candles when you leave a room, or before you go to sleep.
#5 – Keep Harmful Plants Out of Reach.
Plants can spruce up your holiday decorating, but beware of plants that look pretty but are actually poisonous to children and pets. These include:
- Mistletoe (berries)
- Holly berries
- Jerusalem cherry
If you do wind up having an unplanned emergency, it is always helpful to know where the nearest Emergency Department is. For other non-threatening health issues, it’s best to contact your primary care physician for further advice.
[via SafeKids.org]
