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Have a Merry and Safe Holiday Season

By Jamie G. Goldstein

Everyone loves the holiday season, but every year around 8,700 people visit the hospital for injuries caused by holiday festivities. The number of fire responses also typically increases. Keeping these tips from the Consumer Product Safety Commission in mind can help avoid spoiling the fun.

Christmas Trees

- If buying an artificial Christmas Trees, always look for a label that says 'fire resistant' when purchasing a synthetic tree.

- If you're going with the real thing, make sure to pick out a tree that's not too dry. The tree should look very green. You can check to see if a tree is moist by checking a branch and trying to pull off some of the needles or shaking it. A dry tree will shed needles easily. The trunk of a fresh tree will also contain resin which sticky to the touch.

- Keep trees fresh by regularly giving them water.

- Trees should be placed away from any radiators or heaters which can dry trees out and increase the risk of fire.

- If using an artificial can of snow, be sure to avoid inhaling potentially harmful fumes by ventilating the room or wearing a protective mask.

Lights

- When picking out Christmas lights, look for a label on the package that indicates the lights have been tested by independent lab testing.

- Never use electric lights with a metallic tree! The electricity could transfer to the tree creating a risk of electric shock.

- Before decorating, inspect the string for any broken lights, exposed wires, or cracked light sockets. Replace any damaged strings with new lights.

- Don't use more than three sets of lights per extension cord.

- Never go to bed before making sure all Christmas tree lights and any other electronic decorations are turned off.

Have a safe and happy holiday!

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Jamie G. Goldstein

Full post as published by Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer on December 24, 2010 (boomark / email).