Holiday Hazards

By: Libby Mitchell | Dec 22, 2015 1:00 AM

Tags: accidents , falls , burns , poison , trauma , prevention

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.

Pin Dangers
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.
Ornament Mishaps
In 2014 two people died after eating holiday decorations they mistook for chocolates.
Christmas Tree Fires
On average, fires started by Christmas trees cause six deaths, 22 injuries, and more than 18-million dollars in damage every year.
Don't Smoke and Sweater
Every year at least 12 people burn themselves while trying on a new sweater -- while smoking a cigarette.
Candle Caution
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.
Cracker Crack-Ups
Every year at least three people break their arms while pulling holiday crackers.
Gift Opening Mishaps
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.
Perfume Poisoning
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.
Frying Problems
On average, five people die deep frying a turkey each year, and 60 are injured.
Falls While Decorating
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.