by Janet Grischy

Created on: November 23, 2009

With the holidays approaching, it's important to follow a few Christmas safety tips, to ensure a festive season. Even the busiest people need to establish some essential safeguards to protect their families and friends through December and into the new year.

1. Keep the tree safe. Check the lights before you put them on it. Don't use cords that are kinked or frayed, and never overload the electrical outlet. Buy a power strip for extra outlets if you need them. For the safest possible Christmas, never leave lights on when you are not at home and awake. An inexpensive timer can turn the lights off and on for you. You'll save money that way too.

Make sure the tree stays watered if it's a live tree, or use an artificial one. Never put lit candles on or near a Christmas tree. If the tree is near the fireplace, ensure that logs are well seasoned, and the fire screen is in place.

2. Keep the presents safe. Take care that the gifts you buy are appropriate for the age of the child. Small pieces are dangerous to toddlers, and some toys require extensive adult supervision for children of any age. Some imported toys, in other years, have turned out to be unsafe. Check at the Consumer Product Safety Commission website if you are unsure.

3. Travel safely. Don't overload the car. If you bring home your own tree, be sure it is well strapped down (and protect your paint with a tarp or two). Make sure you can see out of the back windows at all times, and remember to fasten the kid's car seats or seat belts too. Car maintenance is also especially important in winter.

4. Keep menus healthy. When you entertain, it is easy to leave food out too long. Also, make sure you're beginning with healthy food in the first place. Go easy on sugar, salt, and fat, even if it is the holidays.

5. Keep kids safe. The holidays have so much going on, it's easy to get distracted. Don't let little ones out of your sight at the mall, and stay in touch with your teens.

6. Keep pets happy and safe. Make sure any outside animals have a waterproof windproof shelter, and make sure indoor pets stay inside. Sometimes they get nervous when holiday guests come, so make sure there is a pet sanctuary somewhere in the home.

7. Shop safely. Lock presents in the trunk. Never leave them where they can be seen. Try to park in a lot with an attendant, whenever you can. Do as much of your shopping as possible in the daytime, or at least in well lit locations. Carry your keys when you approach the parking lot. Carry as little cash as you can.

8. Keep friends close. Some people do not like the holidays. It's cold, the weather is gloomy, and sometimes they feel that they've been left out of the party. Don't try to make friends who are feeling down "get happy," but spend some quiet time with them, doing an activity you both enjoy.

9. Take care of yourself. Make sure you get enough sleep, even if it means tucking in a nap somewhere. Schedule some alone time too, and time with your favorite person, to refresh and recharge. The holidays are fun, but they're sometimes stressful, so you need to be at your best.

10. Enjoy this special time. Follow these tips, and stay aware, but remember to relax and enjoy the warmth and closeness the season brings. Happy holidays!

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