October has finally arrived! The Texas heat is starting to cool down, leaves are changing color, and fall is in full swing. With Halloween quickly approaching, thousands of Texans are digging out their decorations and getting in the spirit of the upcoming holiday season.
When you think of holiday decorations, you may visualize twinkling lights, animatronics, and the dazzling look on children’s faces. However, something you may not be considering is the potential injury these decorations could cause. Unfortunately, hundreds of Texans face injuries while putting up holiday decorations.
Here are some of the most common hazards while decorating for the holidays and how to avoid them.
Falls
Falls are the top contributor to injuries while decorating for the holidays. Whether trying to hang spiderwebs from the ceiling for Halloween or putting up Christmas lights around your house, climbing the ladder poses risks. Remember to use proper ladder safety etiquette by making sure your ladder is on a stable surface and have someone hold it to keep it stable if you can.
While the incorrect use of a ladder can cause injury, climbing the roof is far more dangerous. When it comes to rooftop decorations, always tread carefully. Consider using a harness or hiring professionals to handle high-risk installations.
One often overlooked hazard in holiday decorating is the risk of tripping and falling over cords or anchors. To keep your festivities injury-free, consider using cord covers, securing anchors level to the ground, and organizing cables away from high-traffic areas.
Burns
Candles, string lights, and electronic decorations are the hallmarks of any season, but they come with their own set of risks. Burns are a common hazard whether you’re using candles for that spooky Halloween ambiance or string lights for a festive glow.
Exposed wires on cords and plugs are extremely dangerous, as they can cause fires or even electrocution. It’s important to inspect all cords and plugs for wear and tear before using them and replace any damaged items immediately. Plugging too many decorations into one outlet can lead to overheating and potential fires, so use surge protectors and distribute the load across multiple outlets.
Candles are perfect for any holiday! They set the mood for a spooky scene or a calm Christmas dinner, but their beauty can distract us from the hazards they carry. Keep candles away from flammable materials and be cautious of low-hanging decorations. Never leave them unattended; be sure to put the flame out before going to bed or leaving the house.
Strains
As you get into the attic to pull down those boxes of decorations, be careful! Back strains are a common occurrence during the holiday season due to lifting heavy boxes or awkwardly positioning your body to hang decorations.
It’s important to remember to lift with your legs. This takes the strain off your back and arms and allows the muscles in your legs to do most of the heavy lifting for you. With the excitement of getting decorations put up, it’s tempting to get it done all at once. However, pacing yourself by taking breaks can relieve your muscles and prevent potential injury.
When decorating for the holidays, know your limits. If you are recovering from a previous injury or illness, or if items are too bulky or heavy for you to carry, ask a family member, friend, or professional for help.
Cuts
From pumpkin carving to turkey carving and chopping down the perfect Christmas tree, the holidays require a lot of sharp objects – who knew?! While these holiday moments create the best memories, accidents can happen in an instant.
Be sure to use the proper protective gear when handling knives and cutting tools. When taking on major projects, wear gloves, eye protection, and sleeves to protect your skin and eyes from flying debris. For pumpkin and turkey carving, be cautious and use the appropriate tools for carving.
Taking extra caution while storing your decorations can also prevent injury. Broken ornaments, shattered plates, and jagged decorations all create the potential for some serious lacerations. Wrap these delicate decorations in bubble wrap or newspaper before storing them away for the next holiday season.
By keeping these common holiday hazards in mind and taking precautionary steps, you can ensure that your holiday celebrations remain joyful and memorable for all the right reasons. So, stay safe, and Happy Holidays!
