The holidays are a time for joy, excitement, and lots of fun activities. But amid the chaos of the holidays, things sometimes don't go exactly as planned. On top of daily obligations, some days can feel especially busy with errands to run and the need for last-minute gift purchases, all while trying to create lasting holiday memories. Taking simple steps now to stay safe and prepared can make a great difference, allowing you to relax and focus on what matters most: enjoying the season with the people you love.
As you celebrate, we’ve put together the following safety tips to keep you and your loved ones safe throughout the holidays.
- Stick to reputable websites when buying gifts online; some deals can be misleading and lead you to fake sites. Always type trusted URLs directly into your browser instead of clicking unknown links.
- When considering a new online store, do your research. Many fraudulent sites exist, so verify that the company provides a real address and a valid phone number for customer support.
- As you decorate, remember that not all lights are created for the same environment. Use indoor-rated lights inside your home and outdoor-rated lights outside to avoid hazards.
- When hanging lights, use light-hanging clips rather than nails. This helps protect the cords and provides a safer setup.
- As you cook for the holidays, remember to wash your hands frequently and keep all surfaces clean, especially before, during, and after preparing food, as well as before eating.
- During food preparation, be sure to keep raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs separate from other ingredients for safe and sanitary cooking.
- Remember to inspect your smoke alarms regularly to confirm they’re working correctly and installed near where you sleep.
- Keep your Christmas tree watered each day. A dry tree is far more likely to catch fire.
- Pets are smart and can find their way into anything that smells interesting. Properly discard food, decorations, and other holiday trash to prevent accidental ingestion or injury.
- Avoid leaving lit candles alone. Pets can accidentally tip them over, putting both your home and your pets in danger.
- If you’re feeling isolated or alone this season, try reaching out to a trusted friend, family member, or support network. If you or someone you care about is facing a mental health crisis, dial 9-8-8 to connect with a trained crisis counselor who can offer immediate support.
- Acknowledging your feelings and understanding what you’re experiencing can help you work through your emotions rather than suppressing them, leading to healthier healing and relief.
