subject: Safety First For The Holiday Season [print this page] Its that time of year again! We all love the holiday season; it represents family, happiness and appreciating life. Sometimes the holidays mean stressful dinners, last minute shopping and major travel plans. Its easy to get caught up in the chaos of the holidays, but its important to always think of your safety. With the harsh weather conditions and plenty of cooking, candles and fires, your holidays can quickly become dangerous.
Travel Accidents Traveling for the holidays is very common. If youre not hosting a party or dinner, youre most likely going somewhere else. The most affordable choice of travel for big families or short distances is driving; however the holidays themselves arent the most dangerous driving days. In fact one study proved quite the opposite, as Thanksgiving Day 2008 was actually the 13th lowest day of the year for serious crashes. The days leading up to and following major holidays are the problem. Be extra careful the days before and after Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years.
Drunk Driving Accidents The holidays bring office parties, eggnogs and New Years Eve celebrations. One common theme among holiday parties is alcohol. In fact 49% of car accident deaths during holidays weekends are related to alcohol use. Be smart during the holidays; always avoid drivers who seem distracted or possibly intoxicated. If you plan on drinking, always call a cab or have a sober friend drive you home.
Holiday Fires Holidays are a great time for bonfires, baking cookies and decorating with candles. Unfortunately, all the added heat can lead to fire hazards. Each year, holiday fires injure over 1,650 people, with 400 deaths and over $990 million in damage. Another fire hazard to watch out for is Christmas trees. Both natural and artificial trees can present fire hazards and reportedly ignited in almost 250 home fires a year from 2003 to 2007. Holiday candles can become just as deadly, averaging 15,000 fires each year! Stay safe this holiday season; if you plan on having alcohol or children at a party, opt for a safer alternative. Fake candles and air fresheners can give the same effect of candles, but present much less of a hazard.
Decorating Dangers Decorating your home for the holidays is a great tradition, but can be very dangerous. Falling from a ladder or a roof can lead to a serious injury. If youre inexperienced with Christmas lights, opt for a yard arrangement or put lights in your shrubbery. You may not get the full look of a lit house, but its better than celebrating Christmas with crutches or an arm-sling.
