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Holiday Safely

Dec 14, 2016 | 12:28 PM

With Christmas upon us and hundreds of last minute details yet to be handled before the house fills with relatives or we travel to visit them, the last thing on our mind is safety. Think about “child proofing” your home before the little ones arrive, especially if you don’t have small children in the home regularly:

  • Put small ornaments and tinsel near the top of the tree away from toddlers and pets too!
  • Angel hair is made of fiberglass and is hazardous to children
  • A traditional poinsettia is poisonous. It tastes bitter and most children won’t swallow it but keep it of reach just the same
  • Make the doorways to stairwells are blocked to prevent falls
  • It’s easy to forget but keep the live tree well watered especially in our dry homes
  • Ensure that cleaning chemicals are stored safely
  • Prescription medications should never be left out or placed unattended beside the breakfast bowls as a reminder

Holidays are filled with lots of great food, family and friends but remember:

  • You are responsible for your guests so make sure they have a safe ride home – provide non-alcoholic alternatives; offer rides, take a cab or even take their keys away. You’ll sleep better knowing everyone arrived home safely.
  • While you may just want to head for bed, clean up right away disposing of ashtrays, open food, and left over drinks. Child get up early and could choke on leftovers or consume alcohol that was left out
  • Keep chocking hazards like nuts and candy away from toddlers
  • Babysitters have rules – so leave emergency numbers clearly posted
  • Be sure to clean up properly after preparing the traditional turkey feast. Wipe all counters and utensils that have been in contact with poultry before continuing the rest of the meal preparations.
  • Put away leftovers as soon as possible to avoid food poisoning after two hours bacteria will begin to grow in those warm leftovers

While the holiday gifts are wrapped and tucked under the tree awaiting that big moment, consider these additional holiday tips:

  • Watch for small parts on toys that maybe have been removed or come off such as wheels or eyes.
  • Throw away wrapping materials such as plastic bags, Styrofoam pellets, bows and ribbon as soon as possible. Children might suffocate or choke on them
  • Children will want to know what everyone else got – items like perfume, alcohol appliances or power tools can be extremely hazardous

On behalf of the management and staff of Parkland Ambulance Care Ltd. we want to wish you and your family a joyous fun filled holiday season. Merry Christmas! We wish you a safe 2017 – Happy New Year!