Be merry and safe with these holiday tips

There are various ways to celebrate the holiday season and many use decorations such as trees, lights and candles to show a festive spirit.

Lighting candles, stringing ornaments, decking trees all make for merry holidays with friends and family, but it’s important to be aware of accidents at this time of year. Every year, common incidents include falling off ladders while hanging lights or decorations, cutting hands or fingers with scissors while wrapping or assembling toys, as well as electrical shocks from lights or even watering a Christmas tree while lights are still on. Children and pets have swallowed small ornaments while people often trip over toys or electric cables.

Also, house fires are more likely at this time of year so taking care of candles and burners help ensure this doesn’t happen to you. Here are some more helpful tips to ensure you and your loved ones have a joyous season and minimize the risk of an emergency:

1. Have a first aid kit in the car and at home 

• Include these essentials in your kit and other necessities your family may need
• You can also purchase an emergency kit from our online store
• Be prepared with first aid training
• Download the free First Aid App for resources at your fingertips

2. Tips for Christmas trees

• If you are using a natural Christmas tree, choose a tree that is not dried out; the spines shouldn’t detached easily
• After cutting the base, place it in a container filled with water and make sure the trunk is supported
• Check that the tree is not running out of water so that it does not dry out
• Do not use lightbulbs in an artificial, metal tree and avoid decorative elements that may ignite 

 3. Fire advice

• Check the operation of the smoke alarms
• Make a home evacuation plan and practice it with family members
• Make sure nothing touches baseboard heaters such as curtains, toys, electrical wires
• Do not overload the electrical outlets and make sure that the wires or extension cords do not pass under a carpet or under a piece of furniture
• Make sure matches and lighters are stored in a safe place out of the reach of children
• Store flammable liquids away from heat sources and place them in approved containers.

And finally, be alert at all times to the risk of injuries in both children and adults who often become big kids again at this time of year. Happy holidays to you and yours!