Christmas is hectic. Your house is full of people, hot food, music, movies, and who knows what else. This kind of environment can lead to accidents. It's always important to stay safe, but it's paramount to be on your toes during the holidays, when there are so many opportunities for things to go awry.
The Christmas Tree
Here, safety starts with smart shopping. A dead or dying tree will be dried out and more likely to catch fire, especially if you have lights on it or use a fireplace. When picking out your tree, make sure it's green and the needles bend but don't snap. Take a little bit off the bottom with a saw, to ensure that the tree can drink water and stay moist. Water your tree regularly and place it somewhere away from heat sources like radiators, fireplaces, or heaters.
TIP: If you are going to use an artificial tree, make sure it is fire resistant. Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) and the Factory Mutual Research Corporation (FMRC) list products that meet safety standards.
Lights and Extension Cords
Check your extension cords to make sure there is nothing loose or coming apart. Instead of overloading a circuit in your house, use a surge protector, and try to plug the cords into different areas of the house. Although it can be a hassle, replace any broken bulbs. Don't use Christmas lights on old artificial trees, and avoid running cords underneath carpet or rugs; both of these scenarios represent pretty dangerous fire hazards.
Alcohol It's no secret; when friends get together, they sometimes have a few drinks. If you are the person hosting said get-together, there are a few things you can do to help your friends have a safe holiday.
Photo by alejaeger, sxc.hu
- Have non-alcoholic beverages available. It may seem like a no-brainer, but sometimes a good soda hits the spot.
- Make sure there are designated drivers available. Sometimes, people just need to be reminded.
- If someone is intoxicated and has no DD, call him or her a cab, or offer the person to stay until he or she sobers up. Remember: there are a lot of drunk drivers on the road during the holidays who aren't your guests.
Shopping
Unfortunately, crime goes up during the holidays. Here are some things to consider:
- Don't leave any gifts, especially expensive ones, in your car in plain view. Keep them in the trunk or have something to hide them under.
- Know the area in which you are shopping. Be mindful of where your car is parked and what time it is.
- It's easy to leave your wallet or purse someplace when you are shopping in many different stores. Remind yourself to check and make sure you have everything you came in with.
Pets
The holidays can pose a few more complications for our furry friends as well. Some things to consider:
- Mistletoe and holly are very harmful to certain animals if they eat them, so make sure that you keep these things out of reach.
- Take extra steps to make sure that your pet will not chew through any extension cords.
- Make sure your tree is secure enough that your pet cannot knock it over.
- Sometimes in the winter, outdoor cats will hang out under car engines because they're warm. Check under your car before starting it or pulling out of the driveway.