Safety Tips For The Holiday Period

The holidays can be busy and joyous, but decorations and toys can bring risks along with festive cheer.

Stay safe by knowing how to manage the health or safety hazards of items you bring into your home.

Here are some tips regarding trees, lights/decorations and toys/gifts:

Holiday Trees

• When buying a real tree, make sure it’s fresh and water it daily once you bring it indoors.
• Place the tree away from high traffic areas and doorways.
• Make sure the tree is well-secured in a sturdy stand.
• Place the tree away from vents, radiators, stoves, fireplaces and burning candles.
• Keep metal and sharp ornaments with small parts away from young children.
• Dispose of the tree as soon as the holidays are over, or as soon as the needles start to fall.

Lights and Decorations

• Check all light bulbs before you put them up and replace broken or burned-out bulbs.
• Check the lights and extension cords you use, discarding those that have exposed wires.
• Never run electrical cords through or across doorways where they may trip someone.
• Avoid plugging too many lights and decorations into an outlet.
• Turn off all holiday lights before you go to bed or leave your home.
• Choose tinsel, artificial icicles and other trimmings made of plastic or non-leaded metals.

Toys and Gifts

• Minimize potential hazards by buying well-made toys that are appropriate for your child’s age.
• Toys may contain small parts or other hazards that may make them unsafe for young children.
• Read and follow the age labels, warnings, safety messages and other instructions.
• Check for contact information of the manufacturer or importer if you have any concerns.
• Dispose of all toy packaging like plastic bags, plastic wrap, foam, staples, ties and protective film.
• Ensure batteries are not accessible to children and are properly installed by an adult.