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Christmas Preparations 101

Nov 29, 2017 | 7:56 AM

Christmas carols played on the radio and Christmas displays in local stores signal one of the busiest times of the year. But in our haste to get the decorations put up, baking done, entertaining organized and presents bought, we might take short cuts to getting the jobs done a little quicker.

Take a few short minutes before hanging decorations to:

  • Check all electrical cords for any loose or frayed ends – don’t use broken cords
  • When attaching lights to any surfaces use clips vs. staples to prevent puncturing the cord and shorting out the lights.
  • Do not overload electrical circuits
  • Ensure that ladders are on a solid surface to prevent slippage
  • Do not over extend your reach when on a ladder to prevent falls
  • Keep sidewalks free of ice and snow
  • Wear good footwear to prevent slips and falls
  • Don’t hang tinsel or ornaments on the tree close to floor so small children or pets can reach them creating a choking hazard.

Hosting any Christmas party requires considerable planning not just in what to serve the guests and whom to invite but in preventing illness or injury after the party:

  • If alcohol is being served consider alternative safe transportation such as a taxi or designated driver. Guests may consider staying the night too!
  • If a designated driver is present ensure plenty of non-alcoholic beverages.
  • Ensure that hot food says hot and cold food says cold when setting out buffets for your guests. Put food away as soon as the meal has been served to prevent food borne illness.
  • Never leave food out overnight then expect to “clean it up” in the morning
  • If you have small children or pets at home, tidy up the house as soon as the guests leave rather than leave ashtrays on the table and half consumed drinks out for other to sample when they get up the next morning.
  • If someone was choking at your holiday event – besides calling 9-1-1 would you know what to do? Back blows are an essential first step followed by abdominal thrusts.

As the rush begins to complete the holiday shopping and to get everything organized remember that the stress of the holiday and the worry about meeting everyone’s needs can be a major cause of stress for you. Take time to relax and enjoy the beauty of the season.

Looking for a gift for someone hard to buy, consider a gift of good health and safety. We offer first aid gift certificates, home CPR kits and first aid kits too! That hard to buy for person will appreciate your thoughtfulness and consideration. Remember that planning for Christmas typically involves travel so make sure the winter safety kit, extra blanket, snow scraper, and first aid don’t get left at home when making space for presents or luggage. It’s a time to be jolly so don’t let your holiday plans get ruined with the misfortune with a holiday incident. Enjoy your holiday family times but plan for a safe ride home from the many office or other Christmas related parties.