Don't get carried away in the hustle and bustle of the season and forget to be safe!
Be sure your tree is fresh! Cut a few inches off the bottom to expose fresh wood. Check for dry needles. Keep tree watered, away from heat, and don't block doorways.
Lights. Make sure there are no open or broken sockets, no frayed wires or loose connections. Consider purchasing some of the new LED lights - brighter, cooler, and safer! Turn tree lights off at night or when you leave the house. Don't overload circuits. Use only lights and extension cords approved for outdoor-use outside.
Use flame-resistant or non-combustible decorations. Avoid decorations that look like candy or food that may tempt a young child. Don't use real candles on trees or in decorations.
Don't burn giftwrap or boxes. Take care that decorations aren't too close to open flames. Make sure the chimney flue is open.
Choose toys to suit the age level of your kids. Watch for strings and small parts as choking hazards. Keep regular eating and sleeping routines so younger children do not become overwhelmed and overstressed during the holiday.
Ingesting tinsel, poinsettia and mistletoe could be fatal for both kids and pets.
Wait until Christmas morning to put out the expensive gifts. With home robberies on the rise, gifts laid out under the tree may be tempting to a thief.
And while you are buying extra batteries for toys and gadgets, check your smoke alarm. This is the perfect time to check the battery and keep your family safe.
