Photo by S&B Vonlanthen on Unsplash
Ah, the holidays. Time to unwind and create lifetime memories with family and friends. Holidays are also times when people let their guard down and become prone to accidents. Stay safe, and stay alert to celebrate joyous holidays with your loved ones. Here are some common holiday accidents and how to avoid them.
Decorating hazards
By Sixties Photography on Unsplash home well-lit.
A study by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) revealed that nearly 6,000 individuals are injured in decorating-related falls.
Most of these falls are from ladder accidents, and men were more likely than women to sustain serious injuries.
To avoid injuries from falls, take these precautions:
- Be sure ladders are on a level surface, and do not stand on the topmost rung
- Avoid overreaching when using a ladder; reposition the ladder rather than stretching out your arms
- Don’t stand on furniture; use a sturdy ladder
- Don’t use a ladder alone; have someone with you at all times
- Keep extension cords away from where people will be walking
Be sure the path is clear
Poorly lit, icy walkways are hazardous to guests, especially the elderly and children. Be sure to clear snow and ice from driveways and walkways, and be sure those walkways are well-lit for the dark winter nights so guests can navigate safely from their cars to your doorstep.
Keep the home fire burning, but only in the hearth
Nothing like a toasty fire on a cold winter night. That is, unless you’re watching your house burn down!
Christmas tree lights and candles can start fires. That’s why they should never be left unattended.
When you buy a Christmas tree, be sure it is fresh and moist, with green needles and sticky resin on the trunk. If the needles are turning brown and falling off, they are notorious fire hazards.Also, check your lights for frayed or loose connections, broken bulbs, and cracked sockets. Discard frayed and damaged light strings, and check your extension cords for wear and tear. When in doubt, throw them out! If you’re burning candles, keep them where they can’t be knocked down, and keep them away from the Christmas tree, curtains, furniture, wrapping paper, and anything else that’s flammable. Always be sure to extinguish candles before leaving the room.
Don’t get fried over the holidays!
Speaking of fires, be extra careful if you’re using a turkey fryer. The National Fire Protection Association shared these sobering statistics: Each year turkey fryer accidents cause at least five deaths, 60 injuries, and more than $15 in property damage.
A major source of serious fryer accidents is dropping a frozen turkey into boiling oil. The bird literally can explode, showering burning hot grease on anyone or anything nearby. Click here to see a demonstration by the Gulfport, Mississippi Fire Department of what can happen when you drop a frozen turkey into a deep fryer.
In fact, turkey fryers are so hazardous that none of them are approved for safety by Underwriters Laboratories.
If you do decide to use a turkey fryer, use it outdoors – not in a garage – away from any flammable materials. Wear goggles to protect your eyes, and always use post holders or oven mitts when handling the fryer.
Keep pets stowed away
CDC statistics show that about 4.5 million Americans are bitten by dogs annually. While your dog or cat may be quite mellow around familiar family members, some animals behave differently among crowds of strangers. Dogs not accustomed to children may respond unpredictably if approached by a child.
Cats can injure children, as well. Better to err on the side of caution and keep pets out of sight. Also, at holiday meals, don’t forget that human food isn’t always safe for pets, and some foods can cause serious health problems to your furry friends. Better not to take chances.
Careful in the kitchen
Keep your wits about you when preparing holiday meals, If you’re cooking poultry, use a meat thermometer, and be sure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees. Food poisoning is not laughing matter, and it can be especially dangerous to toddlers and the elderly. Do not allow unsupervised children in the kitchen around hot pans and dishes, and sharp knives. Be vigilant, and stay safe.
So, while the holidays can be joyous times for you and your “tribe,” you want to ensure that you and your guests are out of harm’s way. Use common sense, and follow our recommendations for a safe and happy holiday season.
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Avoid unpleasant surprises! Contact Asheville Home Inspector Peter Young before signing any contracts. Call (828) 808-4980, or click here to make an appointment.
