Top 10 Christmas Safety Tips
1. The Christmas tree poses a few hazards. Whether it is real or artificial there can be hazards in getting it, putting it up, decorating it or simply having it at home. If you are cutting it yourself make sure that you are using the right tools and adequate eye and body protection. Flying wooden bits from the cutting can cause injury to small children, so they must be kept away. While taking down an artificial tree from its storage place in the attic one must use proper step ladders and other safety measures.
2. If the christmas tree lighting system is new it must be checked as per the manufacturers instructions. In case of old ones they must be checked thoroughly for broken bulbs, damaged lamp holders and wires. Any defects must be removed or repaired or else a new lighting chain must be procured.
3. Both artificial and real Christmas trees pose a fire hazard. Because of pine oil present the christmas tree becomes highly flammable after remaining in a heated room for some days. The tree decorations also may be flammable. The area near the Christmas tree must be a no smoking zone and the tree must be kept away from fireplaces, heaters, radiators and other sources of heat.
4. Care must be taken while decorating Christmas trees. The electric lights should be checked on the ground and any damaged bulbs replaced before putting them up. The plug should be fitted securely and the lead wire positioned so that people don’t trip over it. While decorating the tree care must be taken to avoid eye injury from branches sticking out. Proper step ladders or other secure furniture must be used to reach the top portion of the tree. The tree lights must be switched off when no one is in the house and before going to bed.
5. Small children must not be left alone near a Christmas tree as they may pull it down, eat the decorations or touch the heated bulbs. Trees must be secured properly in place so that they are not easily toppled by children or pets. If necessary they may be secured to the wall or ceiling.
66. When buying toys for children one must take adequate precautions. Of course the toys must suit the age of the children. There should not be any small detachable parts which can be swallowed or put in the nose or ear by small children. The toys should be lead free. Care must be taken to see that stuffed toys are not torn at the seams, as children may swallow dangerous filling or inhale them. Toys that eject projectiles like bullets, pellets or arrows can cause eye injury. Once the packages are opened their covering must be removed so that small children don’t choke on them.
7. Candles are commonly used for their magical effect and scent. Candles must not be left burning in an empty room and children should not be left alone with them. They must be positioned away from curtains, drapes and other combustible materials. Candles must be put out fully when leaving the house or before going to bed at night.
8. A lot of cooking is done during Christmas. Smoke alarms must be tested and should be in perfect condition during Christmas time. Children should be kept away from hot ovens and other sources of heat and flame. Care must be taken while handling and pouring hot food items. Proper gloves should be used for handling hot utensils. With increased consumption of alcohol and children running around, the kitchen can be a dangerous place.
9. A proper and detailed fire escape plan should be in place and everyone made fully aware of it. Responsibility of small children should be allocated to particular adults so that everyone knows who they are responsible for. A meeting place outside the house in case of fire should be fixed so that everyone gathers there immediately after the fire. This way if anyone is trapped inside the house it will be immediately known.
10. When fire crackers are used adults must be present. Underaged children must not be allowed to handle fire crackers or light them. Adequate precautions must be taken while using firecrackers. Tey must be stored in a safe place.
