Sacred Heart - Inspiring Health

4 I N S P I R I N G H E A LT H DECK THE HALLS, AVOID THE DANGER Before you hang the boughs of holly, make sure your decorations are safe for your family. Several decorative plants are poisonous if consumed and should be kept out of reach of small children. These include: ✳ amaryllis ✳ holly berry ✳ Jerusalem cherry ✳ mistletoe Artificial Christmas trees should be fire resistant. Keep live trees away from fireplaces, radiators, and portable heaters. Water live trees every day to prevent brittle branches and potential fire hazards. "Decorate your tree with kids and pets in mind," says Paula Pater, Safe Kids Coordinator at Sacred Heart Hospital. "We love hanging beautiful, sentimental ornaments, but if they are made of glass or have small parts, they should be kept on upper branches. Consider storing delicate or potentially dangerous ornaments until kids are older, or leaving the bottom half of your tree undecorated. Always wash hands after decorating." Always check tree lights for frayed wires, broken sockets, or loose connections. Turn off all lights before going to bed or leaving the house to avoid an accidental short. CHRISTMAS VACATIONING Whether you're going across town or out of state this holiday season, stay aware of changing weather conditions. "Have a plan for what to do if you end up in a ditch," says Brian Hedrington, Security and Safety Division Manager for St. Joseph's and Sacred Heart hospitals. "Make sure someone knows your destination and route, just in case there's an emergency." Hedrington also recommends keeping a well-stocked kit in your car in case you get stranded, including: ✳ nonperishable food items, such as meal bars, trail mix, and baby food ✳ a phone charger with an extra phone battery ✳ blankets ✳ bottled water "If you end up on the side of the road, kick snow away from the tailpipe," Hedrington says. "Snow blocking the WHETHER YOU'RE CAROLING, TRAVELING TO SEE FRIENDS AND FAMILY, OR SIMPLY ENJOYING THE COMFORTS OF HOME, KEEP SAFETY ON YOUR HOLIDAY TO-DO LIST. Holiday Safety: B e M erry and Bright

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