It’s the most wonderful time of the year – there’ll be Christmas trees glowing and candle flames burning and good times when loved ones are near – it’s the most wonderful time of the year!  Making the season merry and bright can be beautiful yet dangerous. Let’s get in the holiday spirit by putting safety first!

• Whether your Christmas tree is real or fake, keep it a safe distance from a fireplace, wood burning stove, or other heat-producing sources. According to Good Housekeeping, three strings of lights should be the limit on any power strips or outlets. Be sure the UL symbol appears on the electrical items you purchase and pay attention to the color – green means it’s for indoor use while red is for indoor/outdoor. When using older lights, check that the cords or wires are not cracked or frayed.  Always unplug indoor lights when you leave your home.

• According to the National Safety Council, “12% of home candle fires occur in December.”  Here are a few important reminders:
  • Never leave a burning candle unattended
  • Keep candles and matches out of reach of children
  • Don’t burn candles near trees, curtains, or other flammable items
  • Candles should be on a sturdy surface
• When decorating your tree, refrain from putting glass or breakable ornaments within children’s reach.  When trying to reach up high, use a step-ladder rather than a chair or other piece of furniture.
• When selecting gifts for older adults, the National Safety Council suggests gifts that are lightweight and easy to hold.  For young children, stay away from toys with coin lithium batteries or small parts that could easily be ingested or create a choking hazard.

Let the decorating and holiday gift-giving put us in the holiday spirit and not in the emergency room. Wishing you all a happy and healthy holiday season!

Resources:

Freedman, Lisa. Good Housekeeping. “The 9 Biggest Holiday Safety Dangers.” December 12, 2014. Retrieved from: https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/holidays/christmas-ideas/advice/a22748/holiday-safety-advice/

National Safety Council. “Enjoy a Safe Holiday Season.” Retrieved from: https://www.nsc.org/home-safety/tools-resources/seasonal-safety/winter/holiday

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