christmas safetyThe holidays are a magical time of year, especially for families with children. The smiles and joy of the season spread alongside Christmas cheer. Along with the decorations and celebrations come potential dangers. Take the hazards out of the holly jolly season with these tips.

Decorating the Christmas Trees Filled with shiny ornaments and fun characters, Christmas trees become magnets for tiny hands. Keep your tree intact and child friendly by hanging breakable ornaments and metal hooks out of reach from curious toddlers. The bottom of the tree should be filled with child safe ornaments.

Keep Candles Out of Reach Candles should always be kept at least 12 inches from anything flammable. Never leave them burning unattended or within reach of children. It is also important to keep lighters and matches away from curious hands.

Holiday Lights Are you channeling your inner Clark Griswald this Christmas? When you are hanging your lights be sure to check for broken sockets, loose connections, frayed or exposed wires.

Water the Tree There are few other smells as iconic to Christmas as a fresh cut tree. If you select a real tree as oppose to an artificial variety, it is important to water it regularly. The Christmas tree can become a potential fire hazard if not watered.

Poisonous Plants Poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly are all beautiful seasonal plants, but can pose a hazard to children and pets. These plants are poisonous if ingested. If you experience a poison emergency, call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Age Appropriate Toys When purchasing toys for the children on your list, be certain that you select gifts that are age appropriate. Be certain there are no small parts or choking hazards.

Keep Batteries Away Just as small pieces from toys can become potential choking hazards, small button type batteries from electronic toys can be as well. These electronic gifts can be great choices for older children, but be sure to keep them out of the reach of curious siblings.

Stove Safety It seems as though there is always cooking to be done during the holidays. Prevent spills and burns by turning the handles of your pots inward and using the back eyes of the stove.

Don’t Forget the Helmet Bicycles, scooters and skateboards are all exciting Christmas presents. If one of these fun gifts are under the tree, be sure there is a helmet amongst the gifts too.

Car Seats Did you know that 73 percent of car seats are not installed correctly? Before you travel over the river and through the wood to grandmother’s house, be sure your child’s car seat is properly installed. If your child has outgrown a traditional car seat, they should still remain in the backseat in a booster seat. Booster seats will keep your children safe and enables the seat belt to fit correctly.

We understand that accidents happen when you least expect them. That’s why the staff at our Chattanooga pediatric urgent care clinic are equipped to treat illness and emergencies after your pediatrician’s office has closed for the day. Remember these tips for Christmas safety and a holly, jolly holiday season.