When preparing for holiday parties, 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.
Clean up immediately after a holiday party. A toddler could rise early and choke on leftover food or come in contact with alcohol or tobacco. Remember the homes you visit may not be childproofed. Keep an eye out for danger spots.
When attending a party, always designate a non-drinking driver. If you are the host of a holiday gathering, be sure there are non-alcoholic beverages available for guests who are driving.
During the holiday season pets are also susceptible to injury believe it or not. With respect to pet safety this holiday season, anchor your Christmas trees securely. Climbing cats and dogs with wagging tails can knock over your tree for those who have their pets indoors.
Hang breakable, glass ornaments well out of reach. The small glass and metal fastenings can be stepped on or even swallowed by your pet. Keep tinsel and ribbons out of reach of pets, especially cats that are intrigued by them.
Clean up pine needles frequently. They can be toxic when eaten by your pet. Keep lights and extension cords safely secured or covered to deter chewing, which can lead to electric shock or even electrocution.
This safe holiday season message is from the Preventative Health Department and forms part of the department's calendar of observances to create awareness where it concerns holiday safety.
Have a safe holiday season.
