By Pendergast Law on December 16, 2010
Happy Holidays! I hope that you and your family are eagerly anticipating a joyful season with plenty of time together. I also urge you to keep safe during this busy time and thought I’d pass along some important holiday safety tips.
Decorate Safely
- Never use lighted candles near trees, boughs, curtains/drapes, or with any potentially flammable item.
- When spraying artificial snow on windows or other surfaces, be sure to follow directions carefully. These sprays can irritate your lungs if you inhale them.
- Small children – and animals – may think that holiday plants look good enough to eat, but many plants can be poisonous or can cause severe stomach problems. Plants to watch out for include: mistletoe, holly berries, Jerusalem cherry and amaryllis.
- Stand your tree away from fireplaces, radiators and other heat sources. And avoid placing breakable tree ornaments or ones with small, detachable parts on lower branches where small children or pets might reach them.
- If you use an artificial tree, choose one that is tested and labeled as fire resistant. Artificial trees with built-in electrical systems should have the Underwriters Laboratory (UL) label.
- Only use indoor lights indoors (and outdoor lights only outdoors). Look for the UL label and check lights for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, and loose connections. Replace or repair any damaged light sets, which can be a fire hazard.
- Turn off all lights on trees and decorations when you go to bed or leave the house. It’s also a good idea to unplug extension cords when not in use.
Celebrate Safely
- If you are attending a party where alcohol will be served, choose a designated driver, take a taxi or use public transportation.
- Being a smart party host or guest also means being sensible about alcoholic drinks. Remember, more than half of all traffic fatalities are alcohol-related. Again, use designated drivers to drive other guests home after a holiday party.
Drive Safely
- Prepare your car for the winter by checking the brakes, spark plugs, battery, and tires. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended interval for a tune-up.
- Be prepared for emergency situations on the road by having a winter “survival kit” in the vehicle including items such as a working flashlight, extra batteries, reflective triangles, compass, first aid kit, exterior windshield cleaner, ice scraper, snow brush, wooden stick matches in a waterproof container, and non-perishable, high energy foods like unsalted canned nuts, dried fruits, and hard candy.
Again, Happy Holidays and if you or a loved one is seriously injured in an accident during the holiday season, you may be able to file a personal injury claim and get compensation for your injuries. If you think you have a claim contact our Seattle personal injury attorneys for a free consultation. You obtain the best possible legal services at the time of your injury without having to pay money out of your pocket for legal services. No recovery means no attorney fee.