By: Shanna McGinnis, MD
Holiday decorations are beautiful, but they can become a safety hazard for young children. Artificial spray snow can severely irritate the lungs if inhaled so keep these out of reach. Avoid using breakable or sharp decorations and use caution with sharp ornament hangers. Also avoid decorations that resemble candy or food because small children may try to eat them. Popcorn or cranberry garlands can be a choking hazard for little ones. Bubble lights are less common these days, but they contain a fluid that is poisonous if ingested. Certain seasonal plants, such as mistletoe, holly, and poinsettias are also potentially poisonous if ingested. Contact the National Poison Center at (800) 222-1222 if you have concerns regarding an ingestion. Add the number to your phone’s contact list so it is handy if you need it.
When traveling or visiting other homes for holiday events and parties, remember to keep a very close eye on your children. If the party host does not have kids, the home is probably not child-proofed. Be aware of accessible stairs, uncovered outlets, and cabinets that could contain hazardous chemicals. Although you may avoid them at home, candles or fires in the fireplace are common at holiday gatherings. For older children, teach them the importance of steering clear of open flames. Our family mantra when visiting others is “We look with our eyes, not with our hands.” Speaking of hands, this is a good time to review and enforce good hand hygiene practices to prevent the spread of cold and flu viruses.
Caution should be exercised when it comes to food and drinks at parties as well. If your children have food allergies, be sure to inquire about ingredients used. Seasonal baked goods contain some of the most common food allergens – milk, eggs, nuts, and wheat. If you are not able to get ingredient information, err on the side of caution and choose a different food. When in doubt, leave it out. If you have been advised by your doctor to carry an EpiPen, make sure you have it with you, not just during holiday parties, but all the time. Also be attentive to bowls or trays of food or candies left on tables during “open house” style events. Although this is a practical strategy for easy entertaining, it can get little ones into trouble if they eat foods that are choking hazards or allergy risks. If alcohol is being served, ensure that your child’s beverage is nonalcoholic and they are not sneaking sips from other cups.
One of the most fun parts about this time of year is gift giving, but nothing will ruin the fun more quickly than a toy-related illness or injury. Ensure that the toy is age appropriate. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, and other family members (at least in my family) are notorious for purchasing toys that are too advanced. A toy that may be appropriate and safe for a 10-year-old may not be for a 5-year-old. It probably will not be fun for the younger child either. Be sure that art supplies, such as crayons, markers, paints, and clay, are non-toxic. Painted toys should be covered in lead-free paint. Lead paint has been banned in the United States since 1978; however, it may be found on vintage toys or products imported from other countries. With so much online shopping these days, it is becoming easier to receive a toy that contains lead paint. For more information on toy safety, visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website at http://www.cpsc.gov/.
The holidays are a great time to gather with friends and family, but don’t leave safety out of your celebration. We hope you have a happy and healthy holiday this year!