Holiday festivities and common injuries
Yay, it’s the holidays! But wait, before we start celebrating a little too vigorously, let’s make sure we know all the potential holiday hazards and safety precautions.
Dangerous décor
Holiday decorations can be hazardous in the wrong hands – namely little hands. Falling ornaments, fragile figurines and sharp-edged decorations can lead to cuts, bruises and even eye injuries. To minimise these risks, make sure those flimsy items are well out of reach or use shatterproof ornaments. Keep Christmas lights securely fastened to reduce the chance of tripping hazards. If your kids are in charge of decorating the Christmas tree, ensure the stand is firmly in place and not in danger of toppling over.
Fire safety
Scented candles and twinkly lights lend a pretty ambiance to parties and festivities, but they also pose a significant fire risk. Children might be curious about the flickering flames and try to touch them, leading to burns. To avoid this, keep candles and flames (and matches/lighters) well out of reach and always supervise children around open flames.
Choking hazards
The holidays are filled with delicious treats and small objects that can pose a choking hazard for children. Sweets, nuts and small toys in stockings or ornaments are tempting, but they can be dangerous if swallowed. Keep a watchful eye on young children and be careful about placing small items within their reach. Teach your kids about the importance of chewing their food thoroughly.
Toy safety
Gift-giving is a cherished tradition during the holiday season and many of these gifts are toys. While toys are designed for enjoyment, they can also lead to injuries if not used correctly. Check that all toys are age-appropriate and inspect them for loose parts or sharp edges that could harm a child. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines for safe play and consider protective gear, like helmets for bikes and scooters.
Food safety
Holiday feasts are a highlight of the season, but it’s also the season when food poisoning can rear its ugly head. Foodborne illnesses are common at this time, especially if you’re doing bring-and-share events. Remember, not everyone may have your strict food hygiene standards so be careful! Young children are particularly vulnerable to food-related illnesses, so it's essential to follow safe food practices. Ensure that food is cooked and stored at the correct temperatures and do your best to avoid cross-contamination. As always: wash your hands thoroughly and regularly.
Alcohol awareness
Holiday parties and gatherings often involve copious amounts of alcohol and curious children may be tempted to sample these no-no’s. It could even happen accidentally as they reach for a beverage assuming it’s a soft drink. Alcohol consumption can lead to poisoning and other health risks in children. Keep alcoholic beverages out of reach and make sure your guests know to do the same. The same goes for cigarettes and other recreational drugs.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, or using any medication.