Holiday Safety Tips from NSC

The National Safety Council is offering a number of holiday safety tips for home and office. Among them:

• When displaying a tree, cut about two inches off the trunk and put the tree in a sturdy, water-holding stand. Keep the stand filled with water so the tree does not dry out quickly.
• Stand the tree away from fireplaces, radiators, and other heat sources. Make sure the tree does not block foot traffic or doorways.
• When putting up holiday decorations, always use the proper step stool or ladder to reach high places. Don’t stand on chairs, desks, or other furniture.
• When you climb, always face the ladder and grip the rungs to climbnot the side rails. Always keep three points of contact on the ladder whether two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand.
• When climbing, keep your hips between the side rails and do not lean too far or overreach. Reposition the ladder closer to the work instead.
• Only use indoor lights indoors (and outdoor lights outdoors). Look for the UL label. Check lights for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, and loose connections. Replace or repair any damaged light sets.
• Turn off all lights on trees and decorations when you leave the house or office.
• Being a smart party host or guest includes being sensible about alcoholic drinks. More than half of all traffic fatalities are alcohol-related. Use designated drivers to drive others home after a holiday party.
• Be prepared for emergency situations on the road by having a winter “survival kit” in the vehicle including items such as a working flashlight, extra batteries, reflective triangles, compass, first aid kit, exterior window cleaner, wooden stick matches in a waterproof container, and non-perishable, high energy foods like unsalted canned nuts, dried fruits, and hard candy.

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