Keeping the Holidays Safe
Family gatherings, special traditions, delicious treats - it just may be the most wonderful time of the year, especially for children. Unfortunately, for emergency room doctors it’s also one of the busiest. Take time out to learn how to protect your little ones from some common holiday dangers, and you and your family can enjoy a season that is not only happy but healthy.
Poisoning
- Mistletoe, holly, poinsettias, Jerusalem cherry plants, and other plants are commonly used as decorations during the holidays. Like many plants, these are considered potentially poisonous and should be kept out of the reach of children. Symptoms of plant poisoning can include rashes, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you suspect that your child has eaten any part of a plant, immediately call your child’s doctor or the national poison control number: (800) 222-1222.
- “Bubble lights” containing methylene chloride can be poisonous if a child drinks the fluid from the light (even if labeled nontoxic). Snow sprays may be harmful if the aerosol propellants are used improperly.
- Alcohol poisoning is a common risk for children during the holiday season. Many parents host holiday parties where alcohol is served. Most parties will include seasonal alcoholic beverages like Eggnog and Boiled Custard. Parents must take care to remove all empty and partially empty cups as soon as possible. Because children imitate adults, many may drink the beverages they see adults drinking. Children become “drunk” much more quickly than adults; so even small amounts of alcohol can be dangerous to children.
- Food poisoning is another potential holiday hazard. Practice food safety by washing hands, utensils, dishes, and anything else that comes in contact with raw meat, including poultry and fish, and raw eggs before and after use. Don’t contaminate a serving dish with raw meat.
Choking and Swallowing
- Tree ornaments, light bulbs, icicles, tinsel, and small toys are potential choking hazards for small children because they may block the airway. The general rule of thumb is that if it’s small enough to fit in the mouths of babies and toddlers, it’s too small to play with.
- Common holiday foods such as peanuts or popcorn are potential choking hazards and should not be given to children under age 4.
- The needles of holiday trees can cause painful cuts in the mouth and throat of a child who swallows them.
- Angel hair (made from finely spun glass) and ornament hangers may cause cuts, skin irritation, or eye damage if touched or swallowed by children.
Fire and accidents are also common safety hazards around the holidays. Click here for more information about keeping the holidays safe. We care about the safety of you and your family!
Fighting Depression
The holidays can be tough for people with depression. Feelings of sadness and hopelessness may make it hard to enjoy the season and the time with family and friends. It’s a good time to start becoming educated about depression. There are plenty of resources on-line to help you study up and reassure you that you aren’t alone. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) approximately 1 in 10 people are affected by depression each year.
Familydoctor.org offers an on-line pamphlet, “Depression: What It Is and How to Get Help”. During this time of year, a special type of depression, called seasonal affective disorder (SAD), or winter depression, affects many people. In this season of giving, give yourself a gift — learn about depression and talk with your family provider about getting help.
