December is a time for joyful festivities, hustle and bustle, and holiday celebrations. As we embrace the holiday spirit and say goodbye to another year, we should all prioritize safety to ensure a happy and healthy December. Here are some tips to help you have a safe and injury-free holiday season.
❤️ Holiday Decorating and Fire Safety
- Before using, inspect electrical lighting and decorations for frayed wiring and damaged plugs
- Use sturdy stepstools and ladders in the presence of another helper
- Keep decorations away from heat sources & turn off lights when leaving and going to bed
- Be cautious with candles and never leave them unattended
- Ensure your smoke detectors and fire extinguishers work properly
- Keep combustible items like wrapping paper and decorations away from open flames
❤️ Travel Safety
- Make sure your vehicle is in good condition – check tires, brakes, and fluids before your journey
- Plan for weather conditions like rain, snow, and sleet that may cause delays
- Follow safe driving practices: observe speed limits, avoid drowsy driving, and use designated drivers when necessary
❤️ Weather Awareness
- Stay informed of weather forecasts and plan accordingly
- Dress appropriately for extreme conditions. Dress warmly in layers, and don’t forget hats, scarves, and gloves
- If traveling, be aware of winter conditions that could lead to slips and falls
❤️ Gift Giving
- When choosing gifts for children, make sure they are age-appropriate and free from choking hazards
- Include safety gear and helmets when gifting bikes, scooters, skateboards, and other riding toys
- Be cautious when giving toys with button batteries and magnets
❤️ Health and Wellness
- Stay active during the holidays to offset any additional calories celebrating may add
- Drink plenty of water and avoid or limit your alcohol consumption
- Manage holiday stress by exercising, taking some “me” time, and avoid over-scheduling yourself
❤️ Online Safety
- Only use trusted and secure sites for online shopping
- Avoid public Wi-Fi when online shopping or accessing sensitive bank information
- Learn how to recognize phishing emails and texts and beware of “too good to be true” deals
- Only use unique and complex passwords for your online accounts
- To avoid porch theft, ship to a secure location, use shipping lockers, or ship to store option
