Common Holiday Injuries and How to Avoid Them

Your holiday festivities shouldn’t be dampened because of a trip to the hospital. That is exactly what happens for thousands of people each year. In fact, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, approximately 15,000 people are seen in emergency rooms across the country during the holiday season because of injuries sustained while decorating. Keep in mind that number doesn’t include those involved in car accidents or other seasonal mishaps.

Most accidents occur because people make poor choices. One of the best ways to avoid accidents is to use common sense. Here are five tips to help you avoid a trip to the ER this holiday season.

1. Climbing Carefully

About a third of all holiday injuries result from falls from ladders. Those injured are typically males between the ages of 60 and 85. Approximately 6,000 people are seen in hospitals after falling from a ladder either putting up or taking down lights. If you are going to climb a ladder, make sure you have someone holding it steady or, at the very least, standing outside with you.

2. Burn Injuries

Candles are popular during the holiday season, and Menorahs have a central position in Jewish celebrations. The National Safety Council says that just over half of home fires in December are started by candles. According to the National Fire Protection Association, the top three days for house fires started by candles are Christmas Eve, Christmas and New Year’s Day.

3. Christmas Trees

Christmas tree fires are widely publicized during the holiday season, with warnings to check string lights and ensure that live trees are watered appropriately. Unfortunately, many people don’t take heed of these warnings. It may be tempting to leave lights on when you leave the house or go to bed, but do yourself a favor: unplug all lights when you are not awake and able to respond to a snap or spark quickly.

4. Decorations

A variety of decorations can cause injury in ways that people don’t often consider. For example, fake or spray snow can irritate lungs and eyes, tree ornaments can be deadly to children, and some holiday plants can be toxic. These are just a few examples of decorations that can be harmful. Always decorate your home with safety in mind.

5. Drinking

You may be tempted to have a few adult beverages before undertaking a holiday decorating project, but don’t. Drinking and decorating are two things that don’t mix well. If you want to drink and enjoy time with friends and family, leave the decorating to a time when you are sober.

Holiday decorating shouldn’t involve injury. Your festivities shouldn’t be ruined by a trip to the hospital. Use the above tips before, during and after the holidays to help ensure that you remain as healthy as possible.

If you are injured in an accident in Charlotte this season, call our office. A member of our team will help you schedule an appointment for a free case evaluation. Let us review the details of your injuries and advise you of your options today.