Sleigh This Holiday: Safety Tips for Every Santa

Sure, we might like chaos when we watch Kevin McCallister fight the Wet Bandits in Home Alone or see St. Nick take a tumble off the roof in The Santa Clause. But in real life? We want to keep our holidays drama-free.

However, to do that, we must make sure we avoid these not-so-merry seasonal problems:

• Back injuries. The season can be a real pain in the back—and not just for Santa as he hauls around his sack full of toys. We, too, are hefting boxes from the attic and our front porches. Even if we’re lifting those boxes correctly, back pain can also be caused by decorating, long car rides or even sitting on the floor wrapping gifts or detangling lights. In fact, as many as 25% of adults report back pain or injury during the winter. To prevent it, make sure to stretch frequently and use correct lifting techniques when moving heavy objects.
• Cooking fires. While Thanksgiving takes the top spot, the National Fire Protection Association reports that Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are the second and third most common days for cooking fires. This is because we get distracted, must manage more items at the same time, might not be used to deep-frying food like turkeys, leave items like towels too close to the stove, leave food unattended or may cook after drinking alcohol. To prevent fires, stay attentive while cooking, keep flammable items away from the stovetop and consider using a timer to remind yourself when to check on food.
• Décor fires. Studies show that fire departments respond to more than 800 fires annually that originate from decorative items. While Christmas tree fires are common, other causes include faulty lighting, lamps and even candles. Candle fires increase by as much as 11% during December and January, accounting for up to 46% of house fires. That's why it's essential to keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn, such as Christmas trees. You could also opt for battery-operated ones.
• Falls. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that 160 people are injured daily during the holidays. And while we all like twinkle lights, nearly half of these injuries result from falling off a ladder while decorating, and are more common among men. These falls can lead to hip fractures and serious head injuries, especially among older adults, so it’s important to practice ladder safety, including using a sturdy ladder and working with a spotter.

While the holiday season brings joy and celebration, it’s important to prioritize safety. By keeping these tips in mind, you can better focus on creating lasting memories with your friends and family.

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