Decorate Safely for the Holiday Season
Keep your holidays injury-free with these important safety tips from Safe Kids USA and the United States Fire Administration
Washington, DC — In addition to food, family, and gifts, decorations are one of the reasons that many look forward to the holiday season. While candles, Christmas trees, and other decorations are part of the holiday spirit, they can pose fire and poisoning hazards, especially to curious children. Safe Kids USA and the United States Fire Administration remind parents and caregivers to take a few precautions when decorating for Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and other festivities.
Wintertime is the most dangerous time of the year for injuries and deaths from fire. Each year, approximately 450 children ages 14 and under die in residential fires; children under the age of 5 are at the greatest risk. “Never, never leave lit candles unattended,” says Suzanne Morton, Safe Kids USA fire and burn safety program manager. “Don’t put candles on a tree or a natural wreath, or near curtains or drapes, and keep matches and lighters locked out of reach of children.” (more…)
