Holiday Safety Tips

The holiday season is a time for joy and celebration, but keeping safety in mind is also essential. Here are some tips to help you stay safe during the holidays:

Travel safely: If you’re traveling during the holidays, make sure your vehicle is in good condition, get plenty of rest, and be prepared for any emergency. Traveling by car during the holidays has the highest fatality rate of any significant form of transportation based on fatalities per passenger mile. Hundreds of people die every year in crashes on New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day, according to Injury Facts. Alcohol impairment is involved in about a third of these fatalities.

Decorate safely: Decorating is a great way to get into the holiday spirit, but it can also be dangerous if not done correctly. Keep potentially poisonous plants such as mistletoe, holly berries, Jerusalem cherry, and amaryllis away from children. If using an artificial tree, check that it is labeled “fire-resistant.” If using a live tree, cut off about 0.5 to 1 inch of the trunk to expose fresh wood for better water absorption; remember to water it and remove it from your home when it is dry. Place your tree at least 3 feet away from fireplaces, radiators, and other heat sources, making sure not to block doorways. Avoid placing breakable ornaments or ones with small, detachable parts on lower tree branches where small children can reach them. Only use indoor lights indoors and outdoor lights outdoors and choose the right ladder for the task when hanging lights. Replace light sets that have broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections. Follow the package directions on the number of light sets plugged into one socket. Never nail, tack, or stress wiring when hanging lights, and keep plugs off the ground away from puddles and snow. Turn off all lights and decorations when you go to bed or leave the house.

Watch out for fire-starters: Candles and fireplaces can add warmth and ambiance to your home during the holidays but can also be dangerous if not appropriately used. Place candles where they cannot be knocked down or blown over and out of reach of children. Keep matches and lighters up high and out of reach of children in a locked cabinet. Use flameless rather than lighted candles near flammable objects. Don’t burn trees, wreaths, or wrapping paper in the fireplace.

Stay healthy: Wash your hands often to help prevent the spread of germs. Bundle up to stay dry and warm. If you’re hosting a holiday party, provide plenty of non-alcoholic beverages for your guests. If you’re traveling, pack healthy snacks to avoid the temptation of fast food.

Following these tips can help ensure a safe and happy holiday season for you and your loved ones. Happy Holidays from ICC Compliance Center! ICC is passionate about keeping us all safe. Our team can help your business stay compliant and informed through our resources and products. Contact us to learn more about the ICC difference.