Candles: 

• Use LED flameless candles for a safer alternative.
• Keep candles at least 12 inches from anything flammable.

Electrical Overload:

• Use power strips with surge protection. 
• Avoid daisy-chaining extension cords.

Holiday lights bring beauty—but they also bring risk if damaged or misused.

Common Issues:

• Cracked or exposed wires
• Using indoor lights outdoors
• Low-quality, uncertified lighting products

Stay Safe: Inspect every strand before use, and replace damaged sets immediately.

The combination of clutter, cords, icy sidewalks, and ladders makes falls incredibly common during the holidays.

Safety Tips:

• Keep walkways shoveled and salted.
• Tidy up wrapping supplies and cords.
• Use a stable ladder with a spotter when hanging lights.

Gift-giving brings its own set of risks.

Look Out For:

• Sharp tools like box cutters
• Small parts that pose choking hazards
• Toys containing button batteries

Safety Tips:

• Use scissors instead of knives when opening packaging.
• Keep batteries and tiny components away from children and pets.

The kitchen is one of the busiest—and most hazardous—places during the holidays.

Top Risks:

• Unattended cooking (the #1 cause of holiday house fires)
• Grease buildup
• Overcrowded stovetops
• Deep-frying mishaps

Safety Tips:

• Stay in the kitchen when cooking.
• Keep flammable items away from heat.
• Fry turkeys outdoors, away from structures.

Holiday cheer sometimes leads to holiday accidents.

Be Aware:

• Impaired driving increases significantly this time of year.
• Alcohol slows reaction times and increases burn, cut, and fall risks.

Safety Tips:

• Plan a sober driver.
• Pace yourself and stay hydrated.

Holiday travel often means long hours on the road in unpredictable weather.

Safety Tips:

• Keep a winter emergency kit in your car.
• Check tire pressure and fluids.
• Avoid driving in severe weather when possible.

As temperatures drop, unsafe heating practices rise.

Common Dangers:

• Space heaters too close to furniture
• Blocked air vents
• Using ovens or stoves for heat

Safety Tips:

• Keep space heaters 3 feet from anything flammable.
• Install and test carbon monoxide detectors.

Holiday décor and treats can be dangerous for pets.

Avoid:

• Toxic plants like poinsettias and mistletoe
• Chocolate, xylitol (an artificial sweetener), cooked bones, garlic and onions, raisins
• Loose extension cords

Safety Tips:

• Keep plants and foods out of reach.
• Secure cords and ornaments.

The hustle and bustle of the season can affect judgment and physical safety.

Common Issues:

• Strains from carrying heavy packages
• Distracted behavior
• Increased theft in crowded spaces

Safety Tips:

• Lift with your legs, not your back.
• Give yourself extra time to avoid rushing.
• Stay aware of your surroundings.