Holiday Safety Guide: Prevent Injuries and Enjoy the Season

The holidays are a time for festive decorations, celebration and great food. It can also be a time for spikes in Emergency Department visits. Here are some safety tips to keep you out of the Emergency Department and instead spending valuable time with your friends and family.

Decorate safely

Falls are the second most common injury in our Trauma Center. Plan ahead when decorating to avoid falls and other unintentional injuries.

• Ladders: Never work alone on a ladder, especially at heights. Always have a helper to steady the base, and check the ladder for any damage or loose rungs and screws before climbing.
• Use the 1-to-4 rule: for every four4 feet of ladder height, place the base of the ladder one foot from the wall.
• Decorating outdoors: work during the day when the area is clear and well-lit.

Prioritize fire safety

Fires pose a significant hazard during the holidays, as they are commonly caused by decorations and cooking.

• Live Christmas trees can dry out quickly and become fire hazards. Be sure to water them daily and dispose of them promptly after the holiday.
• Inspect lights for damaged or frayed wires before hanging. Avoid connecting more than three strands together.
• Candles should never be left burning unattended. Keep them at least 12 inches away from flammable items such as curtains and wrapping paper. Use battery-operated flameless candles for added safety.

Cook and eat responsibly

Food is often the center of holiday celebrations, but it can also lead to accidents or illness. To stay safe:

• Watch how long food is left out at gatherings. Eat items while they're fresh to minimize the risk of food poisoning.
• Protect yourself from burns by using oven mitts, turning pot handles inward and using back burners when you can.
• Cooking left unattended is the leading cause of home fires. Always use a timer and remain in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling.

Prevent trips and falls

The hustle and bustle of the holidays, extra foot traffic, seasonal clutter and winter weather can create a higher risk for falls.

• Clutter Free: Keep walkways free from gift boxes, decorations, and extension cords.
• Shoes: When outside, wear shoes with good traction. Walk slowly and carefully when the weather is wet or icy.
• Slip Hazards: Remove indoor slip hazards by asking guests to wipe their shoes at the door to help prevent wet and slippery floors.

Drive safely

Motor vehicle collisions are the leading cause of injury at PVHMC. Holiday travel can be hazardous due to shorter daylight hours, poor weather conditions, and people driving under the influence of alcohol.

• Slow down: Reduce your speed in hazardous conditions and increase your following distance.
• Designate a driver: If you plan to drink at a holiday party, arrange for a sober driver or use a rideshare service.
• Don’t drive distracted.

Stay happy, healthy and safe this holiday season.

Trauma & Acute Care Surgery Services