It's that time of the year for the holiday season, but safety is always a topic throughout the year. With all family and friends keeping you joyful for the holiday, take these precautions to keep everyone away from injuries.
Fire Safety
Home decoration can be delightful or turn to be miserable. The National Fire Protection Association reports that more than one-third of home decoration fires started by candles and two out of every five home Christmas tree fires involved with lighting equipment. Following a few simple tips can bring a merrier holiday season:
Never leave lit candles in an unattended room.
Use flame resistant decorations and electrical systems should have the Underwriters Laboratory label.
Some light are indoor only and some are outdoor only.
Do not daisy chain extension cords for decorations.
Keep the live Christmas tree watered to avoid dry branches from catching fire from any heat sources.
Traveling Safety
Most holiday travelers are traveling on the road, and during the winter holidays, the road can be devastating. The Department of Transportation reports that a total of 35,092 highway fatalities has occurred in 2015. There are a few tips to follow for having a safe trip:
Ensure your car is properly maintained for a long trip or the winter. Check the owner's manual for the recommended tune-up.
Designate a sober driver if the trip will involve alcohols or anything that will cause impairment.
Prepare an emergency kit with a flashlight, batteries, warning devices, jumper cables, a first-aid kit and water.
Always fasten seat belts and put the cell phone away while driving.
Keep valuable belongings in the trunk or covered storage area.
Food Safety
Each year, one in six American get sick from food borne diseases. During the holiday seasons, more friends and family are gathering and sharing food. Following these simple steps can decrease the risk of getting food poisoning:
Wash your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds.
Separate raw meat on a cutting board from ready-to-eat foods.
Use a thermometer to ensure beef, pork, lamb and fish are fully cooked to 145 ˚F; and all poultry should be cooked to 165 ˚F.
If you are bring dishes on the road, keep cold food at or below 40 ˚F and hot food at or above 140 ˚F .
Perishable food kept in between 40 - 140 ˚F for longer than 2 hours should be thrown out.