Deck the Halls Carefully!

Tis the season to deck the halls and get into the holiday spirit! But if not done mindfully, it could result in personal injury. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) states that thousands of Americans each year end up in the emergency ward with holiday decoration-related injuries. Here are some tips to help you keep your holiday bright.

• Did you know that “Angel hair” is actually made from spun glass? It will irritate your skin and eyes if not handled carefully. You should wear gloves when handling it . . . or better yet, use a non-flammable cotton as a substitute.
• If you didn’t know already, flocked trees are all the rage this Christmas season. But did you know that artificial snow spray will irritate your lungs if you accidentally inhale it? So be mindful of that and follow the directions as you plan to spray it on your Christmas tree.
• Keep your small children in mind as you decorate your Christmas tree. Ornaments that are glass (and breakable) should be restricted to the top of the tree.
• Make sure you have a proper ladder and/or step stool in the house. When trying to hang decorations in out-of-reach places, it’s not a good idea to climb up on chairs or other furniture.
• If you plan to string up lights – inside or outside – check the strings for frayed wires or broken sockets. Nothing puts more of a damper on the holiday than an electrical fire.
• Poinsettias have been the official flower of the American Christmas now for generations. But did you know that many of its varieties are poisonous if ingested? Be sure to keep them out of reach from your pets and your toddlers who love to put everything in their mouths! Here is the number of the National Poison Control Center just in case: 800-222-1222
• Toys, decorations, wrapping paper and such are all “trip hazards” especially if you have older friends and relatives spending the holiday with you. Try and make sure your paths are clear in your rooms so that there isn’t an unwelcomed slip trip and fall event.
• Fresh cut trees drink a lot of water. So . . .  if you cut your tree this year – or purchased one that was already cut – please make sure it has lots of water in the tree-stand. Keep watering it!