Here at EHS Support, we take safety pretty seriously (it’s in our name, for cryin’ out loud). And when it comes to the Holidays, safety is something we all need to be thinking about. Whether you’re out doing a little shopping or at home decorating the tree, you should always be mindful of the potential hazards and how to avoid them.
That’s why we put together this handy little list of tips to help keep yourself and the ones you love safe and sound this Holiday Season:
Holiday Decorating
Whether you’re hanging lights on the house or trying to put the star on top of the tree, make sure you’re using proper ladder safety. This means not only using the right ladder for the job (the back of your sofa doesn’t qualify as a ‘ladder’) but also making sure to keep three points of contact (e.g., two feet and one hand) on the ladder at all times.
Electrical Safety
When it comes to your Holiday lights, inspect them each year for things like broken sockets or frayed wires. And make sure they’re approved by nationally recognized testing labs like UL, Intertek or CSA. Use the right type of extension cords and don’t exceed the allowable connections. Finally, don’t overload those electrical outlets!
Fire Safety
Sure, real candles are pretty, but battery-operated ones are much safer. And if you have a real tree, be sure to give it plenty of water while it’s in your home. If you want to decorate the mantel and still use your fireplace, just be sure nothing is hanging over the edge where it can catch fire. Finally, be sure to have an updated fire extinguisher nearby.
Holiday Shopping Safety
When you’re out in the wild hunting for this year’s Must-Have Toy, be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye out for people and, especially, young kids when backing out of your parking spot. If you’re shopping at night, find a well-lit area to park your vehicle. Don’t carry a lot of cash, and only bring the one credit card you plan to use.
Travel Safety
Whether you’re headed to the mall or over the hills and through the woods to grandmother’s house, remember to drive safely. We’re all a little stressed out this time of year, so be patient with other drivers. Keep a safe distance from the cars in front of you (three seconds of space is standard). If you have a little too much to drink at the office party, don’t get behind the wheel. Keep a set of jumper cables in your trunk, as well as a blanket, extra winter clothes, and a flashlight.
Other important Holiday safety tips:
- Watch out for potential poisoning and choking hazards: Mistletoe, holly berries, small button batteries found in toys, small toy parts, etc.
- Don’t shovel snow if you’re out of shape or elderly.
- Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything flammable (curtains, paper, clothing, etc.)
- Install fresh batteries in your fire/smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
Just remember to always put safety first!
From all of us at EHS Support, we wish you a happy and safe Holiday Season!
