“All of us at Yavapai Regional wish you and your loved ones a happy holiday season,” said Dr. Torres.
“This time of year, it’s important to be cautious during indoor gatherings, parties and even holiday shopping,” said Dr. Anthony Torres, president and CEO of Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center. “Frequent handwashing, staying home if you’re sick and getting plenty of rest are key. It’s also important to think about safety precautions around your home as you’re getting ready for the holidays,” he added. “Staying healthy and staying safe will make for a great season.”
By taking a few extra steps while you’re decking the halls, you can help ensure a safe and festive season for all – family, friends, children, pets and even that partridge in a pear tree! Here are 12 safety suggestions to follow while you’re getting ready for the holidays.
1. Choosing Safe Decorations
When shopping for holiday decorations, look for items labeled flame-retardant or flame-resistant to minimize fire risk. This includes artificial trees as well as ornaments, garlands, tree skirts and stockings.
2. Inspecting Your Lights
Always check your holiday lights for any signs of wear or damage before hanging them and replace frayed cords or broken bulbs. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) suggests that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strands to connect and use clips, not nails, to hang lights so the cords aren’t damaged.
3. Using Outdoor Lights
When decorating outside, ensure that you use lights specifically designed for outdoor use. These lights are built to withstand the elements and are less likely to cause electrical problems. Additionally, make sure all outdoor outlets are weatherproof.
4. Displaying Your Tree
If you opt for a live tree, use a sturdy stand to prevent tipping and water it regularly to keep it from drying out. If using an artificial tree, make sure it is labeled fire-resistant. Whether fresh or artificial, place your tree at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces and heaters.
5. Child-Proofing
To keep children safe, take a look at your decoration scheme from your child’s vantage point to make sure small items are out of reach. Choose unbreakable ornaments instead of glass and avoid small decorations that could pose choking hazards. Make sure batteries are out of reach as well. The American Academy of Pediatrics also advises that you “Avoid trimmings that resemble edible items when small children are present, as they may be tempted to eat them.”
6. Keeping Pets Safe
Pets can be curious about holiday decorations too, so make sure that small items are kept out of their reach. Some holiday plants such as poinsettias and holly, as well as mistletoe, Jerusalem cherry, and amaryllis can be toxic to pets, so be mindful of where you place them.
7. Maintaining Indoor Air Quality
Holiday decorating can stir up dust and allergens. Before putting your decorations up, clean them thoroughly – especially fabric items like tablecloths and stockings. Good ventilation is key, so consider opening windows or using an air purifier to maintain healthy air quality, particularly if you plan to entertain friends or family members who have respiratory issues.
8. Preparing for Fire Safety
Ensure that smoke detectors are functional and test them regularly. The American Red Cross emphasizes, “Have a fire extinguisher nearby, and make sure everyone in the home knows how to use it.” Establish a fire escape plan, not only for the holidays, but year-round, and ensure that everyone in your household is familiar with it. In addition, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) advises, “Always unplug lights when you leave the house or go to bed.”
9. Avoiding Overloaded Circuits
One common safety mistake is overloading electrical outlets with too many decorations or lights. Spread out your electrical load and use power strips with built-in surge protectors to safeguard your electrical system. Many indoor electrical fires could be prevented by Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) breakers or outlets. Similarly, outdoor electric lights and decorations should be plugged into circuits protected by ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). Consider having an electrician check the safety of your home’s outlets.
10. Using Battery-Operated Candles
For a warm glow without the fire risk, consider using battery-operated candles instead of traditional ones. They provide the ambiance you desire without the hazards associated with real flames. If using real candles, make sure you extinguish them before leaving the house or going to bed.
11. Cleaning Up
After the holidays, make it a point to clean up decorations promptly and thoroughly. This reduces the risk of accidents, especially with small items that can be easily overlooked, which is critical when there are children or pets in the home. Dispose of any burnt-out lights properly and consider recycling your live tree.
12. Educating Your Family Members
Finally, make safety a family affair. Discuss the importance of holiday safety with everyone in your household. Ensure that children understand which decorations are off-limits and how to stay safe while enjoying the festivities.
‘Tis the season to be jolly… and careful. By following these common-sense tips, you can create a festive atmosphere while keeping your home safe for everyone.
“All of us at Yavapai Regional wish you and your loved ones a happy holiday season,” said Dr. Torres. “Remember, be healthy, stay safe and enjoy!” QCBN
By Joanne Mack Robertson
For more information about Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center and its providers, visit DignityHealth.org/YRMC.
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