Cooking

• Do not leave cooking food unattended on the stove

• It is best to only fry a turkey outside and away from your house.

• Cook foods to proper temperature and refrigerate promptly.

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Traveling

• Keep an emergency kit with you while traveling.

• Get a good night’s sleep before departing.

• Plan for heavy traffic.

• Make sure everyone in the vehicle is buckled up.

• Put away the cell phone while driving.

• Designate a sober driver before drinking at holiday parties.

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Christmas Tree

• Keep tree away from fireplaces, radiators, and other sources of heat.

• Look for the fire-resistant label when buying an artificial tree.

• Keep a live tree watered and make sure that it’s fresh.

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Lights

• Check holiday light cords to ensure they are not broken or frayed.

• Don’t string more than three strands of lights per extension cord together.

• Do not use electric lights on metallic trees.

• Turn off all holiday lights when going to bed or leaving home.

• Fasten outdoor lights securely to you home or trees.

• If using hooks or nails outside, make sure they are insulated against electrocution or fire.

• Choose the right ladder when hanging lights and always have a spotter.

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Decorations

• Make sure outside decorations specified for outdoor use.

• Do not light the fireplace if stockings hang from the fireplace mantel.

• Place burning candles where they can be seen, away from flammable items, and blow them out before leaving the room.

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Toys

• Keep small toys with small parts away from children younger than 3.

• Keep deflated balloons away from children younger than 8.

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Health

• During holiday gatherings, wash hands often to prevent the spread of germs.

• Make sure that you are vaccinated.

• Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke.

• Practice social distancing.

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Useful Links:

• CDC

• Red Cross

• Consumer Product Safety Commission

• National Safety Council