Considerations for decorating safely for the holiday season

Decorate Safely

Decorating is one of the best ways to get in a holiday mood, but emergency rooms see thousands of injuries involving holiday decorating every season.

·         Keep potentially poisonous plants – mistletoe, holly berries, Jerusalem cherry and amaryllis – away from children

·         If using an artificial tree, check that it is labeled “fire resistant”

·         If using a live tree, cut off about 2 inches of the trunk to expose fresh wood for better water absorption, remember to water it and remove it from your home when it is dry

·         Place your tree at least 3 feet away from fireplaces, radiators and other heat sources, making certain not to block doorways

·         Replace light sets that have broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections.

·         Turn off all lights and decorations when you go to bed or leave the house