Safe Decorating Tips for the Holidays
By Karen Dillingham
The holidays have snuck up on us once again, and ‘tis the season to talk about holiday safety.
Every year, emergency rooms treat thousands of patients for decorating injuries during the months of November and December. Most of them are falls, cuts, and back strains. The National Safety Council has some good tips on decorating safely:
- If you are using an artificial tree, make sure it’s labeled “fire resistant”
- Use indoor lights indoors and outdoor lights outdoors
- Place candles where they cannot be knocked over – and NEVER leave candles unattended
- If using a live tree, cut off about 2 inches of the trunk to expose fresh wood for better water absorption. Remember to water the tree and remove it from the house when it is dry.
- Place your tree at least 3 feet away from fireplaces, radiators, and other heat sources, making sure not to block doorways
- Replace light sets that are broken or cracked, frayed or have bare wires or loose connections
- Never nail, tack, or stress wiring when hanging lights, and keep plugs off the ground and away from puddles and snow
- Keep potentially poisonous plants away from children and pets. These include mistletoe, holly berries, Jerusalem cherry, and amaryllis.
- Don’t burn trees, wreaths, or wrapping paper in the fireplace
- Check and clean the chimney and fireplace area at least once a year
The Safety Office wishes a safe and very happy holiday season and a wonderful New Year to one and all!