It is a sad fact that every year the joy of the holidays is ruined for many by personal injury. It is even sadder that these injuries could often have been avoided. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), more than 8,000 people are treated in hospital emergency rooms each year for injuries related to holiday lights, decorations, and Christmas trees. Additionally, Christmas trees are linked to 400 fires annually resulting in an average of 30 deaths and 90 injuries. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to minimize your holiday risks.

For lighting, make sure you use the correct type of lights. Outdoor lights should be designed for exterior use. They are made to handle wet environments. Also be sure the outlet you use to power exterior lights is GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) rated. GFCI plugs are designed to trip a breaker and kill the circuit if a short circuit is detected. In most newer homes exterior plugs are set up on a GFCI circuit. Extension cords with GFCI can be purchased at your local hardware or home improvement store.

For interior lights make sure the cords are not frayed and no bare wires are showing. Occasionally, feel the cord to see if it is getting hot. If it is, this is a sign of trouble. The lights should be unplugged and possibly replaced. Also make sure pets do not chew on electric cords.

Christmas is a great time to test your smoke detectors to make sure they are working. Smoke detectors do not prevent fires, but they are essential for escaping a fire. A dry Christmas tree, once ignited, can set an entire room on fire in less than one minute. If you do not have a smoke detector, it is unlikely you will escape this blaze.

Turkey frying is very popular this time of year and makes for a great feast. But boiling several gallons of oil is not without its hazards. First make sure to set up the fryer on a level surface where it won’t tip over. Also be sure to move it away from the house and/or low hanging trees. And whatever food you put in the fryer should NOT be frozen. When those ice crystals hit the boiling oil they explode and burning oil goes everywhere, especially on the cook. Be sure to have a way to slowly lower your bird into the oil. This will reduce splashing hot oil onto yourself or the area around the fryer. Hand and arm protection is also a good idea. Use a fire resistant glove when lowering the bird into the oil. Then if there is any splash, you won’t be burnt and drop the bird causing further problems.

Americans love to celebrate, especially with alcohol, so if any of your celebrations or parties involve alcohol be sure not to drive if you have been drinking. Decide on the designated driver BEFORE anyone starts drinking. And if you are hosting a party be sure not to over serve any of your guests. Not only would you feel bad if they got in an accident, you could have some legal liability.

The holiday season is a great time to celebrate with friends and family. Please don’t let this time be ruined by an injury, especially one that could easily be avoided. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!