'Tis the season to be jolly, so don't let unexpected injury or illness spoil your family's holiday celebrations. According to physicians at the Nethercutt Emergency Center at UCLA Health - Santa Monica Medical Center, many of the holiday accidents and illnesses treated in emergency departments could have been prevented by simple, commonsense precautions.
Here are some holiday pointers to help ensure a safe and healthy Yuletide season:
- Keep holiday plants, such as holly and poinsettias, out of reach of small children and pets. Many parts of these and other household plants can be harmful, if ingested.
- Use shatterproof ornaments to decorate trees.
- Make sure tree and house lights are grounded to reduce the risk of electrical shock or fire.
- Have your tree fireproofed and place it a safe distance from your fireplace, wall heater and air vents.
- Trim any branches that toddlers might pull or trip on, causing the tree to tumble over on them or someone else.
- Keep a fire extinguisher and first-aid kit in your home at all times.
- Consider safety in all gifts for small children and inspect toys for removable parts or unsafe features.
- Eat and drink in moderation. Overindulgence can lead to gastrointestinal problems and other unhealthful consequences.
- Don't drink and drive. The combination can be deadly.
