1. Replacing old lights and using them properly
While lights bring holiday cheer, they can also pose a safety risk. Always turn off the lights when leaving the house or going to bed, and use indoor lights indoors and outdoor lights outdoors. Replace light sets with broken sockets or frayed wires.
Psst! Try these cute (and safe) Christmas lights cookies.
2. Be aware of poisonous plants.
Mistletoe is poisonous. Pets should be kept away from this plant as well as other potentially poisonous plants like holly berries, Jerusalem cherries and amaryllis. Don't miss our holiday pet-proofing checklist.
3. Drive safely when traveling.
It's always important to drive safely, but the Christmas season can be especially dangerous. Make sure your car is serviced before you leave on a road trip, carry an emergency kit, and take extra time to avoid rushing. When driving in snow or ice, you should slow down and wait for snowplows and sanding trucks to clear the roads before proceeding.
Keep your dog safe and comfortable in the back seat with these tips.
4. Watch Out for Online Shopping Fraud
Unfortunately, the holiday shopping season is fraught with fraud. While you shop, carefully check that the website address is spelled correctly—fraudulent websites with similar spelling can trick you into giving away your credit card information. When checking out, be sure the payment page address begins with “https” (the “s” stands for “secure”). And as always, never click a link from an unsolicited email.
5. Don’t Make the Tree a Fire Hazard
To avoid the same fate as Clark Griswold’s tree in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, be aware of fire safety. Have the tree vendor cut off about 2″ of the trunk to expose fresh wood for better water absorption, and make sure there’s always water in the tree stand. Keep your tree at least three feet away from radiators or fireplaces. And if you buy an artificial tree, check that it’s labeled “fire resistant.”
Tips For Keeping Your Family Safe During Christmas
