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Keeping Holidays Safe and Happy · Avoid trimmings that resemble candy or food. Children might eat them! · Keep "bubbling" lights away from children. The brightly colored candle-shaped lights and bubbling movement can tempt curious children to break the glass, which can cut, and attempt to drink the liquid, which contains a hazardous chemical. ·
Artificial
snow sprays can irritate lungs if inhaled. To avoid injury, read container
labels and follow directions carefully. ·
Decorative
spun glass "angel hair" can cause skin and eye irritation. Wear gloves
while using. ·
"Fire
crystals" which produce colored flames when thrown on wood fires, can
contain heavy metals, corrosive agents, and irritants which can cause intense
gastrointestinal irritation or vomiting if eaten. Keep away from children. ·
Choose
tinsel or artificial icicles of plastic or non-leaded metals. Avoid decorative
candles with metal wicks, which can contain lead. Leaded materials are hazardous
if ingested by children. Seasonal Plants § Poinsettia: In most cases, exposure to poinsettia plants will cause little reaction. Ingestion by small children may cause skin or mouth irritation, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. § Mistletoe: Ingesting a few of the relatively non-toxic berries could produce mild nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Ingesting concentrated extracts of the plant, including the berries, may produce serious poisonings. § Holly: Ingestion of a couple of berries most commonly results in mild to moderate stomach irritation and possible mild drowsiness. Ingestion of a large quantity of berries can cause vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and extreme drowsiness. The leaves have spines which can cause mechanical injury (such as injury to mouth or throat). § Pine, fir and spruce trees: The needles may cause mechanical injury or choking if ingested.
Plan for safety! Check for and eliminate
potential dangers in your home. Happy Holidays!
Author: Mary E. May, RN, BA, MPH
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