Holiday safety tips
Here are some holiday tips from the American Red Cross to make the winter
holiday
season safe and pleasant.
- Beware of holiday lighting. Take care when burning candles.
Be sure they
are
kept away from decorations or other combustible materials. Don't leave children
unattended in a room with lit candles, and always keep candles, as well as
matches and lighters, out of the reach of children. Never display lighted
candles in
windows or near exits. Don't use lit candles as tree decorations.
- Decorate only with flame-retardant or noncombustible materials. Avoid
using candles during parties. If guests will be smoking, provide them with
large, deep ashtrays
and check them frequently. After the party, check inside and under upholstery
and in trash cans for cigarette butts that may be smoldering.
- Keep Christmas
trees fresh. Choose a fresh tree and secure it in a sturdy stand.
Place the tree away from heat sources and exits, and
water it daily.
If the tree is artificial, be sure it is labeled as fire-retardant.
If stockings are hung on the fireplace, do not use the fireplace
for fires.
- Designate a driver. When attending a party, always designate a non-drinking
driver. If hosting a holiday gathering, be sure there are non-alcoholic
beverages
available for guests who are driving.
- Buckle up. During the holiday months,
people travel more than ever. Wearing a seat belt is the easiest and best
way to prevent injury in a motor vehicle
collision.
Ensure that all passengers are also wearing safety belts.