We tend to cook and decorate more during the holiday season. These activities if not exercised with caution and safety can lead to burn injuries, which is one of the most common problems emergency rooms face at this time of year. Doctors are requesting that people pay close attention to potential hazards that can result in burn injuries and avoid them by following these safety guidelines:
- Do not leave food unattended on the stove or oven for extended periods of time.
- Avoid wearing loose garments around flames by the stove or fireside.
- Keep flammable objects such as pot holders, paper towels or utensils made of wood away from the stove.
- When buying a real tree make sure that it is green. Also remember to water your tree if it is real – a dry tree is a fire hazard. If purchasing a synthetic tree be sure to check for a label that reads “fire resistant.”
- Keep trees away from fire places or radiators.
- Never leave candles or oil burners unattended.
- Keep gifts and wrapping paper away from fireplaces.
- Have chimneys cleaned and inspected each year.
- Make certain that smoke detectors are working.
- Always have a fire extinguisher within reach.
- Do not overload extension cords.
- Inspect holiday lights to make certain that wires are not cracked or frayed.
Please keep your holiday season safe and accident free by following recommended fire safety guidelines. For a list of further safety tips please visit the National Fire Protection Association’s website www.NFPA.org .
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.