The holidays are always an exciting time of year for everyone. It is also an important time of the year to be mindful of your safety. To help ensure everyone has a safe holiday season, the Jamaica Hospital Trauma Division has compiled a list of safety tips to help you remain safe this holiday season
Toy Safety
- Select safe toys to suit the age, abilities, skills, and interest level of the intended child. Toys too advanced may pose safety hazards to younger children.
- For infants, toddlers, and all children who still mouth objects, avoid toys with small parts which could pose a fatal choking hazard.
- Immediately discard plastic wrappings on toys, which can cause suffocation, before they become deadly playthings.
- If your child is going to be getting something that s/he can ride, such as a bicycle, inline skates, scooter, or a skateboard, be sure that s/he also gets the appropriate protective equipment, including a helmet and pads.
- Discourage your kids from playing with BB and pellet guns.
Decoration Safety
- When putting up holiday decorations, always use the proper step stool or ladder to reach high places. Don’t stand on chairs, desks or other furniture.
- When using ladders outdoors, get down immediately if high winds, rain, snow or other inclement weather begins.
- If you use lights on your Christmas tree ensure the wiring is not damaged or frayed. Damaged of frayed wiring can cause a fire.
Travel Safety
- Prepare your car for winter travel by checking items such as the brakes, and tires.
- Make sure children are in the proper car seat.
- If you drink, do not drive no matter how little you think you’ve had.
- If you must drive, be cautious and watch for the erratic movements of drunken drivers, distracted drivers, and distracted pedestrians.