Holiday safety tips
WE are now in the thick of the holiday season, and no doubt your children want to be involved in all the activities. But while having little elves around could make the work lighter and more exciting, parents have to be cautious because a great number of things could go wrong.
Dr Anona Griffith, paediatrician at Gateway Plaza, Old Harbour, who says she has noticed an increase in the number of preventable injuries particularly during the holidays, shared some tips that could save parents a trip to the emergency room.
1. Have a plan and include children in the planning process. Discuss safety issues with them, including personal safety.
2. Decorating is an exciting time for bonding and can be a great family event. To ensure that it remains a safe and injury-free event, consider the following:
a. See that the electrical connections in your home are checked professionally to ensure there is no overloading of the electrical circuits with the addition of lights that you will be putting up as part of the decor.
b. Ensure that electrical outlets are safe for use and are covered.
c. Avoid choking hazards which include lights and decorations with loose, removable parts, as well as gift and decoration wrappings.
d. Unplug lights before bedtime.
e. Avoid placing candles within the reach of small children.
3. Buy age-appropriate toys, preferably battery-operated. But avoid these for small children who tend to put small objects in their mouths.
4. When out with your children, it is important to be vigilant. You don’t want to lose sight of them so make sure that before you leave the house, clear rules are established about the importance of not leaving your presence without permission.
5. Monitor children carefully, especially in large shopping areas.
6. Safety gear should accompany gifts like skateboards and bicycles.
7. Monitor use of technology and install parental blocks as necessary.
8. Food safety can be assured by employing proper food preparation and storage techniques.
9. Avoid alcohol and smoking including second and third-hand smoke in the presence of your children.
10. Encourage hand washing as a means of preventing infections.
Enjoy the holidays!
