The Nethercutt Emergency Center at UCLA Medical Center, Santa Monica, has released a set of suggestions for how to stay safe and healthy while celebrating the holidays in the coming weeks.
Physicians at the Medical Center suggest that often times taking simple precautions could mean the difference between spending your holiday with friends and loved ones or spending it in an emergency room. Take a few minutes to go over the following pointers that could help guarantee health and safety for you and your family this season:
–Plants such as holly and poinsettias, popular in the winter, can be harmful if ingested. Keep them out of the reach of small children and away from household pets.
–Avoid glass ornaments: trim your tree with shatterproof ones instead.
–Check to make sure tree lights and house lights are grounded. This reduces the risk of electrical shock and fire.
–Have your tree fireproofed and make sure it is a safe distance from open flames (such as fireplaces), wall heaters and air vents.
–Trim low branches that toddlers might pull or trip over, causing the tree to crash down onto them or others.
–Keep a well-maintained fire extinguisher and stocked first-aid kit in your home at all times.
–Consider safety in all gifts you give to young children this year. Inspect toys for removable parts or unsafe features.
–Celebrate without overindulging. Excess food and drink can lead to gastrointestinal problems and other consequences.
–Never drink and drive. The combination can be deadly.