Quick Tips to Keep Everyone Safe During All Holidays
By Sandy Schroeder
As the pace picks up, it’s all too easy to overlook holiday hazards that can lead to illness or injury. Check HarvardHealth’s safety tips from The American Academy of Pediatrics.
Toy Warnings
Shop carefully for the perfect gifts.
Check age labels – When you buy a toy, check for age guidelines, and follow them for safety.
Check for small pieces - Avoid buying toys with small pieces for children under age 3. Look for small attached items such as knobs or wheels that can be pulled off and swallowed by an eager toddler.
Watch out for magnets and batteries – These can be dangerous if swallowed by small children.
Age separation – If you are buying toys for children of different ages in a family, buy larger containers to house small pieces, that can endanger a small child, such as Legos.
Missile alert - Be cautious with toys that launch items, making sure ground rules are put in place for safe use.
Food Safety
Holiday dinner and party buffet ground rules.
- Thaw meats in the refrigerator, not on the counter
- Wash raw produce and use meat thermometers to make sure poultry and meats are thoroughly cooked
- Keep raw and cooked foods separated in the refrigerator to avoid contamination
- Make sure meat and poultry is cooked thoroughly, and raw produce is washed
- Wash hands frequently while cooking and baking
- After dinners and buffets, promptly wrap and store extra food in the refrigerator
- Keep knives and hot foods out of reach of small children
Decoration Guidelines
- If you use candles never leave them unattended
- If you buy a live tree, trim a few inches from the bottom and keep the stand filled with water
- Put trees away from traffic areas and sources of heat
- Be aware of tree dangers for small children and pets
- Make sure artificial trees are fire resistant
- Check lights for loose connections or frayed wires before using them
- When using lights outside, make sure they are safe for outdoor use
Visit Checklists
When visiting someone's house during the holidays take precautions for kids.
- Do a risk check of stairs, household pets, kitchens and bathrooms, keeping small children within view and contained in safe areas
- Assign someone to watch infants and toddlers.
- If needed, agree on a designated driver
Stay safe and remember to take lots of pictures to relive the day.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Columbus, Ga.