The holidays are here!
And whether you’re currently finishing up a few projects from the office or already baking cookies with the kids, it’s important to stay safe during all the festivities. Check out these top tips to share with your coworkers, family, friends & fellow city residents!
A Designated Driver
This season is all about celebrating – but remember to party smart by designating a DD before the parties start. Make accommodations to stay in one location or use a taxi service to get home safely. Never risk it all by getting behind the wheel after drinking.
Winter Weather & Driving
Speaking of safe driving – with accumulation of snow, sleet and ice, it’s very important to keep a survival kit in your car. If you happen to get involved in an accident or your car breaks down, you should have an emergency kit on hand including:
- Water
- Non-perishable snacks
- Flares
- Flash light
- Phone charger
- Jumper cables
- Warm clothes
- Gloves
- Ice scraper
- Hand warmers
- Cones
- Spare tire
Prep Your Vehicle
Avoid a break down or safety risks associated with car maintenance by driving with a full tank of gas as often as possible. Ensure that your oil has been changed recently and your windshield wipers are in good condition. Consider snow tires if you’re in a smaller vehicle or drive an older model.
Plan for Elders
With families coming together, provide all items necessary for family and friends of all ages! Getting around in the winter weather is tough for everyone, but especially for elderly relatives. Keep your walkways salted and illuminated – and keep indoor hallways lit up with night lights. Having a CPR certified person is always a smart idea!
And Don’t Forget the Kiddos
Keep the kids in mind, too! During this time of year, lots of little toys and candies are given out so it’s important to ensure that your children stay away from choking hazards. Also check the toy recall list before wrapping those presents!
And the Pets
Ornaments and holiday plants are supposed to add value to your Christmas decor, but they can end up completely ruining your Christmas if your dogs or cats get their paws on them. Make sure ornaments or other decorations are out of reach and keep Poinsettias on high surfaces only. If your pets ingest this plant or start showing signs of vomiting and lethargy, call the Poison Control Center at (800) 222-1222.
Avoid Fires
Candles and lights make the holidays beautiful, but they’re also huge fire hazards. Candles alone start about 25 house fires annually. Only burn candles on tall surfaces away from flammable materials. Christmas trees can be major hazards as they begin to dry out. Be mindful of all the decorations and where they’re placed.
Hanging Lights Outdoors
Very few of us are light hanging professionals – so take these tips from CPR Near Me:
- Plug in all of your outdoor Christmas lights while still indoors, so you can replace any bulbs that have burnt out while you are still on the ground.
- Make sure any ladder that you use is on a flat, solid surface. Because it is the midwinter season, ensure that there is no snow or ice that could compromise the security and safety of your ladder.
- Do not put lights in any trees that touch a power line, and do not hang lights so they come into contact with a power line. This could cause a serious fire and power outage.
- Always turn the lights off when you go to bed and when you leave the house. In the case of an emergency, you need to be able to respond quickly.
FROM CPR NEAR ME
Stay safe this season – Happy Holidays to your and city from CityForce.
