Each year, hospital emergency rooms treat thousands of people for injuries from falls, cuts, and burns related to holiday festivities. Keep the season hazard free with this list of safety tips.
| Fire Safety | |
| • | Always unplug Christmas lights before leaving home or going to sleep. |
| • | Never burn wrapping paper or boxes in the fireplace because wrappings ignite suddenly and burn intensely. |
| • | Never leave candles unattended. Extinguish the flame when leaving or going to sleep. Consider using flameless candles; some look and smell like real candles. |
| • | Always keep live trees watered and away from any heat source. If purchasing an artificial tree, look for the label “Fire Resistant”. Click here to view a video showing how quickly your home will be engulfed in flames from a Christmas tree fire. |
| Toy Safety | |
| • | Remove strings and ribbons from toys before giving them to young children. |
| • | Read instructions to know if the toy is appropriate for your child’s age. Small parts could be a hazard for younger children. |
| Food Safety | |
| • | Never let food that requires refrigeration set at room temperature for more than two hours. |
| • | Keep hot liquids and foods away from the edge of counters and tables, where they can be easily knocked over. |
| Shopping Safety | |
| • | Avoid shopping alone. Don’t be too proud to ask security to walk you to your vehicle. |
| • | Never leave your purse unattended. |
| • | If purchases remain in your vehicle between stores, it’s best to lock them in your trunk or cover them with a blanket. |
Texas Associates Blog 