Happy Holidays from the members of EPIC-FSC. As we celebrate the joy of the season, safety first will help keep your loved ones protected. We’ve combed the internet and put together this handy guide to help you and your loved ones enjoy a festive and worry-free season. Read on for insights, recommendations, and practical steps to navigate the festivities with peace of mind.
Decorating with Care
Emergency departments often experience an increase in injuries associated with holiday decorating. Here are some crucial tips from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to guide you through the season:
Mindful Greenery
Keep potentially poisonous plants such as mistletoe, holly berries, Jerusalem cherry, and amaryllis out of reach of children and pets.
Tree Safety
If using an artificial tree, ensure it is labeled “fire-resistant.” For live trees, cut off 2 inches of the trunk, water it regularly, and remove it promptly when it becomes dry. Position your tree at least 3 feet away from heat sources like fireplaces and radiators, and avoid blocking doorways.
Ornaments
Keep breakable or small, detachable ornaments away from lower tree branches accessible to small children and pets.
Lighting Wisdom
Use indoor lights inside and outdoor lights outside, and replace damaged light sets promptly. To avoid falls while hanging lights, we suggest having a “spotter” to hold the ladder steady.
Plug Safety
Follow package instructions for the number of light sets per socket. Keep plugs away from puddles, and never nail, tack or stress wiring when hanging lights.
Lights Out
Consider using timers to automatically to turn off all lights and decorations before going to bed.
Watch Out for Fire-Starters
This time of year poses significant fire hazards, with the U.S. Fire Administration reporting 156,000 fires during the holidays in the U.S. each year. To ensure safety, consider the following tips:
Candles and Fireplaces
Candles cause 46% of fires in December. Place candles out of reach of children, use flameless candles near flammable objects, and never leave candles or fireplaces burning unattended.
Fireplace Safety Screen
Use a screen on the fireplace at all times when a fire is burning, and DON’T burn trees, wreaths, or wrapping paper in the fireplace.
Chimney Care
Check and clean the chimney and fireplace area at least once a year.
Turkey Fryers
Be cautious if you plan to fry a turkey this holiday season. Follow these guidelines to keep your home and family safe.
Food Safety
Keep your holidays merry by handling food safely. Follow these tips from foodsafety.gov:
Hand Hygiene
Wash hands frequently when handling food.
Avoid Cross-Contamination
Keep raw meat away from fresh produce, and use separate cutting boards and utensils.
Use a Thermometer
Ensure meat is cooked to a safe temperature.
Prompt Refrigeration
Refrigerate hot or cold leftover food within two hours. The USDA recommends dividing large dishes, such as soup or stew, into smaller, shallow containers before refrigeration to decrease your risk of foodborne illness.
Leftover Care
Cut turkey leftovers into small pieces for quick chilling; they are safe for three to four days when properly refrigerated.
Gifts and Toys
Make gift-giving joyful, not hazardous. Follow these tips from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission:
Age-Appropriate Toys
Choose toys within the correct age range for safety.
Choking Hazards
For children under 3, avoid toys with small parts.
Electrical Safety
Always supervise your younger children when playing with toys that must be plugged in.
Beware of Batteries and Magnets
Be cautious about toys with button batteries or magnets, which can be harmful if swallowed.
Safety Gear
When gifting bicycles or other riding toys, include appropriate safety gear like helmets.
With warm wishes from the entire EPIC-FSC team, we extend heartfelt greetings for a joyful holiday. Whether you observe Christmas, Chanukah, or Kwanza, may your celebrations be merry, bright and safe.
Happy Holidays!
For insights on emergency preparedness and community involvement, please explore our comprehensive resource library.