The holiday season is a time of joy, family gatherings, and festive decorations. However, if you have young children, it’s essential to recognize that many common holiday decorations can pose hidden hazards. From small parts to toxic substances, the decorations we love may inadvertently pose risks to curious toddlers and babies. Here’s a guide to help keep your family safe while still enjoying a festive home this season.
Christmas Tree Hazards
The Christmas tree is often the center of holiday decorations. Whether you have a real tree or an artificial one, be aware of potential hazards:
Ornaments: Many ornaments are fragile, small, and can break easily. Glass ornaments, in particular, can shatter into sharp pieces if they fall, posing a risk of cuts and choking if small fragments are ingested. Additionally, some older ornaments may contain toxic paints or lead.
Tinsel and Garland: These decorations may look shiny and fun, but tinsel and garland are choking hazards for small children. If swallowed, tinsel can also cause blockages in the intestines, which can lead to severe health issues requiring immediate medical attention.
Tree Water: Real trees are often kept in water to maintain freshness, and many people add preservatives to the water to keep the tree healthy. However, these chemicals can be toxic if ingested by children or pets. Even plain tree water can contain bacteria, dirt, and chemicals from the tree itself, so it’s best to cover or limit access to the tree stand.
String Lights and Electrical Cords
Twinkling lights are a holiday staple, but they come with their own risks:
Electrical Shock: Plugging lights into outlets can result in electric shock if cords are damaged or if children pull at the lights. Ensure that cords are in good condition, out of reach, and that outlets are covered with child-safe covers.
Strangulation Hazard: Long strings of lights, cords, and even decorative garlands can become strangulation hazards for young children. Avoid draping lights or cords in places where they could get tangled around a child’s neck or limbs. For added safety, opt for battery-operated lights that don’t require long cords.
Small Bulbs: Small light bulbs on holiday string lights can become loose, break off, and create a choking hazard. Secure all bulbs, replace any missing or broken ones, and consider lights with larger, child-safe bulbs if possible.
Candles and Scents
Candles are popular during the holiday season for creating a cozy ambiance, but they present several risks for children:
Burns: Lit candles can easily be knocked over, causing burns or fires. Opt for flameless, battery-operated candles, which offer the same warm glow without the risk of open flames.
Scented Potpourri and Essential Oils: Many people use potpourri, essential oils, or scent diffusers to enhance their home’s holiday smell. However, some of these products contain oils that are toxic if ingested. Essential oils such as eucalyptus, peppermint, and clove can be especially harmful to young children. Make sure these items are stored out of reach and monitor diffusers when in use.
Small Decorations and Figurines
Tiny holiday decorations, such as figurines, small Santa and snowman models, and miniature Christmas villages, can be choking hazards. Any decoration that can fit through a toilet paper tube is too small to be safely within reach of young children. Also, be cautious with vintage figurines or older decorations, as they may contain lead or other toxic materials in their paint.
Fake Snow and Spray Decorations
Many families enjoy creating a winter wonderland indoors with spray-on snow for windows and other surfaces. However, these spray products often contain chemicals that are dangerous if inhaled or ingested. Additionally, artificial snow powders can cause gastrointestinal distress and respiratory issues if swallowed. Use these products sparingly, and be sure they’re well out of children’s reach.
Plants and Greenery
Holiday plants add a festive feel to any home, but some of the most popular plants used during the season are toxic:
Poinsettias: Though not as toxic as once believed, poinsettias can cause mild irritation and upset stomachs if ingested.
Mistletoe and Holly: Both of these plants are toxic and can cause severe digestive upset if swallowed. Mistletoe berries, in particular, are highly poisonous to children and pets.
Christmas Cactus: While non-toxic, this plant has spiky leaves that can scratch little hands and faces. Keep all holiday plants out of reach or choose child-safe alternatives like silk or plastic versions.
Making Your Home Holiday-Safe for Children
Creating a festive environment while keeping safety in mind can be challenging, but it is possible with a few simple steps:
Childproof the Area: Consider putting up a baby gate or setting up the tree and other decorations in a designated, child-free zone.
Anchor Large Decorations: Large decorations like trees and heavy items should be anchored or positioned securely to avoid tipping.
Opt for Shatterproof Ornaments: Shatterproof plastic ornaments can be a safer alternative to glass ones.
Supervision: Close supervision around holiday decorations is key. Keeping an eye on your child during the holiday season can prevent many potential accidents.
The holidays can still be a time of joy and wonder without compromising safety. By taking a few precautionary steps and being mindful of the decorations you choose, you can create a child-friendly space where everyone can enjoy the festivities.
Comments