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By
Catherine M. Pruissen
As
we gather round the tree for some holiday fun with
cherished family and friends, we quite often let down
our guard towards preventing accidents. But holiday
hazards abound this time of year. And like most accidents,
many of these can be prevented.
During
the holidays residential fires occur as a result of
careless smoking, trees placed too close to the fireplace
or in the case of natural trees, left unwatered day
after day drying out branches that can ignite without
warning. When decorating and hosting, we need to be
aware of these dangers. A No Smoking area around the
Christmas tree is recommended. Candles should be kept
at a distance from curtains, the tree or any flammable
substance. Lights should be in good working order,
not frayed or with loose connections. Special attention
should be paid to cooking areas.
Christmas
bulbs and lights pose another problem for children.
Make sure that no ornaments, particularly the glass
type, are not left lying around after they have fallen
off the tree. Place ornaments high enough so that
little hands cannot grab at them.
Batteries
should also be kept away from young children. So too
when it comes to wrapping paper, ribbons, balloons
and other objects such as that can cause choking.
Remember
that foods such as peanuts, hard candy, and nuts can
cause children to choke and should be kept out of
reach, especially for the under five age group.
Many
festive plants such as the poinsettia and the berries
on mistletoe are dangerous poisonous if ingested.
Alcohol
consumption affects one's judgment when driving, cooking
and in many cases when wrestling with children.
Parents,
please take the time to safety-proof your home and
to ensure the caregiver's home and the daycare is
free of the above hazards. Let's all have a safe and
happy holiday.
Source:
Kids for Keeps: Preventing Injury to Children,
by Martin Lesperance. Kids for Keeps Ltd. Cochrane,
Alberta.
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