By Andy Klein

As the days become shorter and the winter winds bring the cold, it’s time to enjoy our favorite seasonal holiday traditions. But we want to safely celebrate around the table and make new memories with friends and family. Here are some Red Cross holiday season safety tips to keep your winter holidays merry and bright!

Decorating is a big part of the holidays. Lights on fir trees, yard decorations and lights on eves and chimneys all shine brightly to bring joy. But many require a ladder to them put up. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, 12,000 to 15,000 people end up in the emergency room every holiday season as a result of accidents related to decorating. When you use a ladder, have good, stable placement and wear shoes that allow for good traction. Plus, furniture should never be used as a ladder. Additionally, according to the National Fire Protection Association, nearly 200 home fires were related to Christmas trees each year – from 2014-2018. Real trees need water every day to avoid flammable dry needles. And look for the fire-resistant label when buying an artificial tree. Remember to also place your tree at least three feet away from fireplaces, radiators, and other heat sources. You should also dispose of your tree shortly after Christmas – as dried-out trees can be a fire hazard, too.

Creating delicious holiday treats, like Christmas logs, have become a seasonal tradition for many. But remember to keep your holidays happy by handling food safely. Wash your hands frequently when handling food; keep raw meat away from fresh produce; use separate cutting boards, plate, and utensils for uncooked and cooked meats to avoid cross-contamination; use a food thermometer to make sure meat is cooked to a safe temperature, and don’t leave the leftovers on the table or counter. Also, remember to refrigerate hot or cold leftover food within two hours of being served

Of course, many turn to gift-giving to remind loved-ones just how special they are during the holidays. But, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than a quarter of a million children were seriously injured in toy-related incidents in 2017. Pick age-appropriate gifts to help ensure safety. Choose toys for children under three that do not have small parts which could be choking hazards. For children under 10, avoid toys that must be plugged into an electrical outlet. Be cautious about toys that have button batteries or magnets, which can be harmful or fatal if swallowed. When giving scooters and other riding toys, include appropriate safety gear, e.g., properly sized safety helmets. And all this applies to any “adult” children you may have, too!

Lastly, we cannot forget about doing our part to keep our friends, family, and our community safe. The Covid-19 pandemic is not over; and flu and cold season is in full swing. The CDC recommends open windows and doors for group gatherings so cleaner air circulates well. Anyone older than two who is also not fully vaccinated should continue to wear a mask in indoor public places. Also, you may want to consider virtual celebrations or gatherings instead of in-person events—especially if vaccine status is uncertain or uneven within your group. And, despite the prospect of not being with friends and family, if you're sick or have symptoms of COVID-19 or the flu, stay home. Pro-tip: discuss mask and social distancing expectations and behavior early, so everyone is working from the same ground rules about safety measures.

Now go forth and enjoy—the 2021 holiday season awaits!