Dec 22, 2015 1:00 AM
Author: Libby Mitchell
The holidays are a wonderful time of the year. However, they are also a time when many unexpected, hidden dangers are lurking. These dangers could be hiding in plain sight in your decorations, your meals, or even in your gifts.
Libby Mitchell is the Social Media Coordinator for University of Utah Health Care. Follow her on Twitter @UUHCLibby.
Every year more than 200 people are admitted to the hospital after not removing all the pins from new shirts. Most have to be removed surgically.
In 2014 two people died after eating holiday decorations they mistook for chocolates.
On average, fires started by Christmas trees cause six deaths, 22 injuries, and more than 18-million dollars in damage every year.
Every year at least 12 people burn themselves while trying on a new sweater -- while smoking a cigarette.
In the last five years there have been 70 deaths, 680 injuries, and 418-million dollars in property damage from fires started candles. The top three days for home candle fires are Christmas, New Year’s Day, and Christmas Eve.
Every year at least three people break their arms while pulling holiday crackers.
Thousands of people cut themselves with knives and scissors trying to open Christmas gifts each year. Remember, cut AWAY from your body and never let kids open new toys by themselves.
In 2014, 52 children were admitted to the hospital after drinking the contents of perfume or cologne bottles. If your child swallows perfume call poison control and seek medical help immediately.
On average, five people die deep frying a turkey each year, and 60 are injured.
Hundreds of people are injured each year when they fall off ladders and roofs while hanging Christmas decorations. Typical injuries include lacerations, falls, and back strains.
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