12/19/2009 10:24:00 PM Tips for safe holiday celebrations
By YAVAPAI REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER Special to the Courier
Family gatherings, work parties, gift exchanges, New Year's events - the number of festivities that take place during this time of year can add up fast. No matter how you're celebrating, count on these tips to help make the season merry.
Deck the Halls
If you're stringing lights outside of your home, make sure they have been certified for outdoor use and are plugged into a grounded circuit. Only use indoor lights indoors. No matter where you add extra touches of light, check all light strands for frayed wires, broken sockets or loose connections, and don't overload outlets.
Festive decorations may help put you in the holiday spirit, but they can also pose hidden dangers. Like any other time of the year, matches, lighters and candles should be kept out of reach of children. Only use decorations with flame-retardant or noncombustible materials. Look for and eliminate potential hazards such as garlands that could strangle small children or objects that could be tripped on. Avoid using tinsel or placing poinsettias in rooms where your pets may wander.
Give the Right Gift
When choosing gifts for children, make sure the toy or game is age-appropriate. Age levels are generally stated on the packaging. Steer clear of toys or games with small pieces if there are young children in the family.
If you're selecting a gift for an older adult, don't buy something that is heavy or awkward to handle. If the recipient has arthritis, avoid gifts that require assembly.
Eat, Drink and Be Healthy
Whether you're a party host or guest, practicing healthy habits can help ensure your enjoyment of the event.
If you're providing food for a gathering, cook meat and poultry thoroughly and carefully wash fruits and vegetables to reduce the risk of food poisoning. Use separate utensils for raw and cooked meats, and wash your hands frequently to help stop the spread of germs. Food that needs refrigeration should not be left out for more than two hours.
Before attending a party, eat a healthy snack. This way, you'll be less likely to overindulge in decadent holiday treats. Also exercise caution with alcoholic drinks. If you plan to consume alcoholic beverages, designate a driver. If you're hosting a party, offer plenty of nonalcoholic alternatives to guests, and don't let guests who have had too much to drink drive.
Take steps now to make sure safety is not lost in the hustle and bustle of the season. The following websites can help you learn more about holiday safety:
•USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service, www.fsis.usda.gov.
