Small lights, tiny ornaments and pine needles on Christmas trees, garlands
and wreaths can be a choking hazard. Keep anything that fits in a child's
mouth well out of reach.
Strands of holiday lights and other electric decorations can be
electrocution hazards. Don't overload outlets and use only electrical
equipment that has been approved by the Underwriter's Laboratory. Also
inspect all cords for damage that might have occurred during storage.
Candles, which are more common during the holidays, increase the risk of
fire. Keep them out of reach of children and be sure to dress toddlers in
flame-retardant clothing.
Perfumed oil lamps, especially those that smell like food, are often very
attractive to small children. Keep them out of reach because the oil could
cause severe aspiration pneumonia if swallowed.
Plants can become dangerous if children decided to eat them in large
quantities. Holly can cause skin inflammation and an upset stomach.
Mistletoe can be toxic to the heart, and poinsettias can cause
gastrointestinal irritation. Call poison control if a child has decided
to have these items for dessert.
On trips…
On trips…
Grandparents who will be hosting visits with little ones should make sure
their house is safe. Experts recommend investing in cabinet locks, outlet
covers, cook on the back burners and, if there is a pool, make absolutely
certain that the area is inaccessible.
When visiting elderly relatives, make sure children cannot get into
medications that may be kept on counters, in cabinets and by the bed.
Also, don't forget the medicine in Grandmother's purse.
Don't forget to supervise kids around pets. Even those that are ordinarily
friendly to children could bite because they are overwhelmed by the
disruptions of normal routines, extra activity in the house and loud
noises.
When flying, be sure to use an approved car seat on the plane. While
children younger than 2 are allowed to fly on an adults lap, the National
Safe Kids Campaign recommends children who weigh 40 pounds or less use
safety seats. The seats will be needed anyway once you land because most
states require that kids be restrained in cars and taxis.
On toys…
On toys…
Children often can't wait to get outside to try new bikes or scooters.
Before they rush out the door, make sure they are wearing helmets and have
received safety instructions. Once outside, keep them away from
high-traffic areas and supervise them as they take their maiden voyage.
Make sure toys given as gifts are appropriate for the child's age and
developmental stage. And, keep toddlers in mind even when giving a gift to
their older siblings. "When you give a toy to one child, you are
giving it to the entire family," said Dr. Susan Scott, assistant
professor of pediatrics with expertise in injury prevention.