The holiday season is in full swing and brings countless joys, but also several health and safety issues that we need to be aware of. Here’s five of the top hazards that can turn you into a Grinch this holiday season if precautions are not taken:
- Contagious illnesses – It’s no secret that we are exposed to larger gatherings around the holidays, whether it be the office party, the family celebration or a church or synagogue gathering. Chesprocott Health District reminds the community to be aware that Influenza, COVID and other viruses are still prevalent, and we need to continue to be on guard. Have your hand sanitizer with you and use it frequently. Avoid touching your mouth and eyes, especially after handling doorknobs or other public objects. It’s impossible to guard yourself 100% from illnesses, but simple precautions can reduce your risk of illness. If you are not feeling well, stay home.
- Food poisoning – Holiday parties are potential sources of food borne illness. Within 2 hours of cooking food or after it is removed from an appliance keeping it warm, leftovers must be refrigerated. Throw away all perishable foods that have been left at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Cover leftovers, wrap them in airtight packaging, or seal them in storage containers. These practices help keep bacteria from growing. Leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days or frozen for 3 to 4 months. Although safe for months, frozen leftovers can lose moisture and flavor when stored for longer times in the freezer.
- Smoke inhalation and burns – One of the beauties of the holidays can also be one of the most dangerous. Extra lights, candles, fires and cooking all increase the chances of a fire breaking out. But did you know that smoke inhalation from a burning food item or a fire can cause serious health issues including scarring in the lungs and shortness of breath? ServiceMaster Apple Valley reminds the community that smoke has very fine particles that are particularly dangerous to those who have compromised lung capacity, so be extra careful with handling any kind of fire and be attentive when cooking.
- Electrical hazards – The holidays are the season for electrical overload resulting from the abundance of lights and gadgets we enjoy at this time. The obvious warnings are to avoid overloading outlets or running extension cords in walkways. But did you know that some older holiday decorations are actually a hazard with outdated technology which can’t handle today’s electrical currents? Be cautious when hanging granny’s old Christmas star or continuing to use extension cords that have been damaged and compromised. Additionally, leaving lights on 24/7 increases the risk of fire, and also skyrockets your electric bill. ServiceMaster Apple Valley advises consumers to invest in modern electric technology with timers and safety shut-offs to reduce the chances of electrical fire. This allows you to enjoy the decorations without putting your family in danger.
- Travel Safely – The distractions of the holidays also spill over into our roads and highways which are extra busy this season. As always, be sure to use seatbelts whether your trip is short or far, and always look ahead to the weather reports. Even if snow and ice are not in the forecast, black ice can still remain from previous storms and pose driving and slipping hazards. Additionally, be aware of those you are driving with, being sure there is no drinking and driving, putting everyone on the road at risk. These are obvious reminders but still good to review to help ensure the safety of those you love.
Keeping health and safety in the forefront during the holiday season is something Wisemen will do to prevent injury and illness. And it truly can bring peace and goodwill to our communities! Happy Holidays!
