During the most festive time of the year, it’s important that your household celebrations aren’t ruined by easily avoidable accidents. Research shows that is the case for thousands of people a year – the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that approximately 15,000 people are seen in emergency rooms annually during the holiday season for accidents specifically sustained while decorating at home.
Taking small precautionary steps could prevent a major accident at the worst, and a damper on your holiday cheer at the best. Check out a few tips to help prevent the most common types of at-home holiday accidents.
Climb Cautiously
Plenty of popular holiday decorations including garland and string lights oftentimes involve using a ladder and reaching high spaces. Roughly one-third of holiday injuries result from ladder falls, and approximately 6,000 people who are seen in hospitals for ladder injuries annually had been putting up or taking down lights. If you must climb a ladder, make sure it’s being held steady and take on the climb carefully.
Beware of Burns
Candles are a popular decoration during the holiday season, especially when used with Menorahs for Jewish celebrations. The National Safety Council reported that over half of home fires during the month of December are started by fires, a difficult statistic to ignore. Additionally, fires caused by Christmas tree lights are common as well, and it’s important that you never leave your string lights plugged in around a dry tree while unattended – especially before going to bed or leaving the house.
Use Safe Decorations
Certain seasonal decorations can pose dangers that many people don’t consider, especially if you have small children or pets in the house. Fake or spray snow could irritate lungs and eyes and be toxic if consumed, and many kinds of ornaments have small parts that could pose a choking risk to children. Similarly, holiday plans like poinsettias can be poisonous if consumed by children or pets. Choose your decorations thoughtfully.
Avoid Drinking
Everybody loves a glass Everybody loves a glass of holiday cheer while partaking in seasonal activities, but it’s best to avoid the eggnog before getting into decorating mode. Decorating under the influence could result in serious injury, and it’s best to be sober while you do so. Save the celebrating for when you’re finished and enjoy the final product!
