Happy Holidays! This time of year is full of festivities, gatherings, and celebrations. Incidentally, there is also an uptick in fire, auto accidents, and other mishaps this time of year. Keep your holiday season safe this year by remembering these helpful tips.
Travel Safely. Prepare your car for winter and have an emergency kit handy, avoid distracted or drowsy driving, and assign a designated driver when attending events where alcohol is present.
Plant Watch. Plants like mistletoe, holly berries, Jerusalem cherry, and amaryllis can be poisonous to people and pets if ingested. They are fine to use for decoration purposes but keep an eye on them and keep them out of reach of children and furry family members.
O’ Christmas Tree. If you are using a real Christmas tree, make sure to trim the trunk to allow for better water absorption, water it often, and remove it from your home when dry. If you are using a fake tree, opt for one that is labeled “fire-resistant.” Avoid placing your tree near any fireplaces, radiators, or other heat sources, and don’t block doorways.
Twinkling Lights. Only use indoor lights indoors and outdoor lights outdoors. Replace lights that are broken or cracked, have frayed or bare wires or have loose connections. Make sure to turn off all lights and decorations when you go to bed or leave the house.
Flickering Flames. Place candles where they cannot be knocked down or blown over, keep them out of reach of children, and never leave candles burning unattended or when you are asleep. Use flameless, or electric candles near flammable objects.
Gather ‘Round the Fireplace. Check that your chimney and fireplace are clean and in working order. Use a screen on the fireplace at all times when a fire is burning. Never leave a fire unattended or burning while you are asleep.
For more helpful holiday safety tips visit the National Safety Council.
