The holiday season is approaching quickly, bringing a time for celebration, reflection, travel, and time with loved ones. But the holiday season is also one of the busiest times of year for emergency medical personnel and hospital emergency rooms across the country. Emergency department staff report a significant increase in accidents and injuries from November to January. Unfortunately, accidents during the holiday season are common because of hazards around the home while decorating and celebrating.

To keep you and your family safe, we are highlighting some of the most common holiday hazards, accidents, and injuries so you can keep your holiday season merry and bright.

Falls While Decorating

Whether you are decorating the interior or exterior of your home, you may use a ladder as part of the holiday decorating process. To avoid falling, have someone else hold the ladder steady. Otherwise, you could lose your footing or, if you are outside, fall away from the house. Don’t lean too far to either side, and for every four feet of height, you should move the ladder out one foot away from the wall. Before you start decorating, check the ladder for signs of wear or broken parts.

Slipping on Snow and Ice

Snow and ice are common in Michigan, and many people enjoy a sense of wonder as the winter elements transform the land into your own personal snow globe. But snow and ice increase the risk of slip and fall injuries. To avoid being injured in a fall, wear proper footwear and use handrails and other support when available. Avoid carrying heavy loads and keep your hands out of your pockets when walking outside so you can break a fall if necessary. Around your own home, you can sprinkle salt to melt the snow and improve traction.

Neck and Back Injuries

People who enjoy the scent and feel of a live Christmas tree know that loading it on the car and carrying it inside is no easy task. There is also additional heavy lifting from moving packages, boxes of decorations, and heavy grocery bags. Lift with your legs, not your back, and enlist help from a friend, neighbor, or loved one when you carry the tree and other heavy items inside.

Fires and Burn Injuries

Extra cooking, holiday baking, candles, overloaded outlets, and the ambiance of a fire all increase the risk of fires and burn injuries. To reduce these holiday hazards, never leave a stove or oven unattended, and turn these devices off as soon as you are done cooking. Inspect light strands and electrical cords, and avoid overloading outlets. And don’t leave a candle burning unattended.

Automobile Accidents

The number of automobile accidents increases during the holidays due to a combination of people driving in unfamiliar areas, hazardous weather conditions, and alcohol and recreational drug use.

Protect yourself and your family by wearing a seatbelt, driving defensively, and, when possible, scheduling your trip so you drive in unfamiliar areas during the daylight. If you choose to drink alcohol or use drugs, designate a sober driver or arrange alternative transportation.

Cuts and Puncture Wounds

Whether you are wrapping gifts or are the one doing the opening, many people reach for scissors or a knife. Be sure to cut away from yourself, and keep an eye on children who may be struggling to open a gift.

Toy-Related Injuries

If your children (or you!) are using new scooters or riding toys, be sure they wear a helmet and other protective gear. Follow safety guidance and other information on toy packaging, and keep small parts and packaging away from small children. Once gifts are opened, discard the plastic and other dangerous packaging before these items become dangerous playthings.

Food and Alcohol Issues

It is easy to get caught up in the holiday festivities. But people get sick from enjoying too much food or drink. Beware of food poisoning caused by food being left out too long at parties, and allergic reactions that can occur when people eat away from home and sample unfamiliar foods.

If you choose to consume alcohol, drink slowly, consume alcohol with food, and alternate each alcoholic beverage with a glass of water.

Happy Holidays from Muth Law, P.C

By taking a few precautions, you can keep your holiday season injury-free so you can focus on the celebration and enjoy spending time with family and friends. The team at Muth Law, P.C., wishes you and your loved ones a safe and joyful holiday season filled with peace, happiness, and relaxation.