Keep Holiday Decor Safe for Children

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The holiday season is a sensory treat for children and adults alike, with tempting sights, smells, tastes and textures. We decorate our homes with lights, glass, garlands, candles and more—many of which pose potential risks for youngsters.

Electrical Safety Foundation International recommends taking the following safety precautions to ensure that this special time of year does not result in a decoration-related tragedy.

• Read the manufacturer’s instructions and warning labels for any decoration that will be used around young children, such as electronic trains and animatronic dolls. Note if it is appropriate for their age group and determine whether adult supervision is required; plan accordingly.
• Instead of traditional candles, try using battery-operated candles so you can avoid the hazards associated with open flames.
• Keep candles, matches and lighters out of reach in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave children unsupervised when candles are lit.
• Strings of lights and garland are staples of holiday decorating, but they can also pose a strangulation hazard. They should never be used as toys.
• In homes with small children, try to avoid using decorations that are sharp or breakable. Otherwise, remember to place glass and breakable ornaments out of the reach of young children.
• Avoid putting Christmas tree lights, ornaments, metal hooks and other small, mouth-size decorations near the ground or on lower limbs, where they may be easily reached by young children.
• Holly berries, wax fruits and other decorations can present choking hazards.
• Keep this in mind when arranging your decorations: Cover any unused outlets on extension cords with plastic caps to prevent children from coming in contact with the live circuit.
• Place electrical cords out of the reach of small children.
• Never allow children to play with holiday lights, electrical decorations or cords.