9 tips for making the holiday safe

The holidays are a time for gathering together with family and loved ones, feasting on lots of food, and having fun. As you make your holiday to-do list, Kettering Health Network ER physicians advise you to make sure it includes this important task: Take steps to stay safe to avoid injuries and life-threatening illnesses — and a trip to the emergency room.

Celebrations that make this time of year so festive also bring hazards, from dangerous decorations to poisonous plants. Here’s how to keep you and your family — pets included — out of harm’s way:

1. Step up carefully. To help prevent falls, use a step stool or ladder to place decorations in high places. Make sure the ladder is appropriate for the height and location.

2. Be cautious with candles. Always keep them at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn. Don't forget to blow them out before you leave the house or go to bed. Keep candles on stable surfaces and out of the reach of children and pets.

3. Check holiday lights. Take a close look to find any exposed or frayed wires, loose connections, or broken sockets.

4. Trim trees with kids and pets in mind. Keep breakable ornaments or those with metal hooks near the top of the tree — and away from curious little ones and animals.

5. Fireproof your tree. Live trees dry out rapidly, so keep the stand filled with water. Turn off all tree lights and decorations when not in use. And keep your tree away from fireplaces, radiators, portable heaters, candles, and other flammable items.

6. Watch out for potentially poisonous plants. Keep mistletoe berries, holly berry and Jerusalem cherry out of reach of children and pets. Better still — opt for festive artificial plants. In a poison emergency, call the national Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

7. Match toys to kids' ages. Always take the time to check packages for age ranges. Toys above a child's age level may be hazardous. Avoid giving little kids toys with button batteries.

8. Don't forget the helmet. If you're surprising a child with a bike, skateboard or other riding toy, be sure to include a helmet.

9. Protect your family and guests from food poisoning. Wash your hands before and after handling uncooked meat — the same goes for utensils, counters, sinks and anything else that has come in contact with uncooked meat. Reheat holiday leftovers to at least 165 degrees to keep dangerous bacteria from multiplying.

You should never take a holiday from practicing good safety habits. That is one gift your family will appreciate year-round.

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