The most wonderful time of the year can also be the most dangerous. As the lights come out and trees go up, many get injured in holiday decorating tasks. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), there were 15,000 injuries involving holiday decorating seen in emergency departments nationwide during November and December 2012. And this number has been on the rise ever since. Here are some of the most common holiday related injuries and tips to avoid a trip to the emergency room during this season.
CAUTIOUSLY CLIMB
When getting your ladder out to put the star on top of the tree, make sure you are following the proper instructions when using your ladder. Thirty-three percent of decorating injuries result from falling from a ladder. It is important your ladder’s locks are all properly engaged and that your ladder is placed on a surface that will not allow for slipping. Recruit a family member or friend to spot you while decorating so that if you do fall, someone can catch you or quickly get help.
ELUDE ELECTROCUTION
Christmas lights are a necessary accessory during holiday decoration. However, be sure to inspect all of your lights before putting them up. Check for fraying, bare spots and gaps in the insulation or excessive kinking in the wires. Doing this will allow your family (and your pets) to avoid electrocution once the lights brighten up your home.
SHOVEL SMARTLY
Even though we dream of a white Christmas, each year over eleven thousand snow-shoveling injuries are reported. When beginning the daunting task of clearing your driveway after a heavy snowfall, make sure you are dressed in warm clothing and high-traction footwear. While shoveling, be sure to pace yourself, take frequent breaks and clear the snow by pushing instead of lifting.
DANGEROUS DECORATIONS
Some holiday decorations can be dangerous without even realizing it. Poinsettias can be poisonous to your children and pets, so keep them out of reach and immediately dispose of fallen leaves. When using glass decorations for your tree, place them at the top to avoid them easily being knocked off, and if one does break, quickly clean up all glass that could cause injuries.
FIRE SAFETY
The United States Fire Administration (USFA) reports that Christmas tree fires are more damaging than regular fires and these fires result in twice the amount of injuries as opposed to an average winter fire. Never buy an artificial tree that is not labeled fire resistant. If you are opting for a real Christmas tree, purchase one that is fresh and green. Be sure your tree is at least three feet away from a heat source and to water it daily to avoid fires.
Unfortunately, even these holiday safety tips cannot help you from a defective product. That is where we can help. If you have been involved in an accident from a defective product design, please contact the Eason Law Firm. Eason Law has helped clients dealing with personal injury and wrongful death get the compensation they deserve. Contact Eason Law through the contact form or by calling 314.932.1066 to schedule your free consultation. You should not have to pay for someone else’s mistakes.