As we approach the holidays, our homes become gathering places for those we love. We want them to be comfortable and happy, and we look forward to spending time with them. Often safety issues are far from our minds, but just a little effort can prevent big accidents.
Prevent Fires
- Keep all upholstered pieces away from heating sources. If you allow smoking inside the house, periodically check for cigarette stubs on or around the cushions.
- A space heater should have 3 feet clearance in all directions.
- Keep candles away from all curtains, upholstery, and flammable decorations. Put them where they will not be tipped over accidentally. Never leave them unattended or use for decorating trees. It is better to use candle stands that will enclose the flame.
- Trees should not be allowed to become dry, so make sure it sits in water after you chop off about 1 inch. If you use an artificial tree, make sure it has a UL label on it.
- Don’t overload circuits by plugging everything into one electric source. Unplug all lights before leaving the house or going to bed. Replace frayed cords, and only use lights with the UL label on them. Your extension cords should have built in circuit breakers
- Fireplaces and chimneys should be inspected before you light any fires to check for creosote buildup or objects such as leaves or nests. It helps to screen your fireplaces off to prevent any sparks flying out. It is better to use a clean burning log, as they don’t give off toxins and are easily available.
Prevent Falls and Injuries.
- Fix any wobbly chairs and make sure furniture is placed in such a way that people can move around without hurting themselves. Make sure sharp cornered tables, if any, are positioned so that people don’t walk into them.
- Rugs dress can up a room, but make sure they are skid proof. Rug liners accomplish the job nicely. There are different kinds for different floors, so what works on carpeting will not work on a hardwood floor. Make sure to get the right kind.
- Have night lights in hallways and bathrooms especially when you have guests staying over. Make sure any steps or changes in the floor level are also lit.
Childproofing
- If you are going to have small children accompanying your guests you should think of making your home more child- friendly. You might want to put up different decorations and leave the good china in the cabinets.
- Nothing makes up for having someone in charge, but some common sense precautions also help, such as making sure to store all your cleaning supplies, medicine, and vitamins out of reach of small children.
- So many attractive holiday plants commonly used for holiday decorating are toxic. If you use holly, mistletoe or poinsettias to decorate, place them where children cannot reach them.
- The tree stand should be sturdy and anchored to prevent tipping over. Do not use fragile or breakable ornaments near the bottom.
- Electrical cords should be kept away from children.
- Candles, menorahs and all matches and lighters should also be out of reach.
