From Candles to Candy and Ornaments to Allergies

14 Tips for Protecting Children from Holiday Hazards

It's ironic that even as the holidays approach – with all their fun and festivities – risks for children increase. "The highest incidence of household injuries occur at party times and during times of increased family activity," says Dr. Kate Perkins, medical director of the Children's Health Clinic at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, Calif.

"During the holidays and especially at party times, kids are excited and parents are distracted," says Dr. Lloyd Brown, associate director of the Pediatrics Residency Training Program at Cedars-Sinai and medical director of the C.O.A.C.H. for Kids Program. "Kids are home from school and reacting with lots of energy and excitement to the magic of the season. Whether you're celebrating Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas or any other holiday, it's in your children's best interest for you to be aware of special risks and of how to prevent accidents."

Both doctors offer the following tips for protecting kids this holiday season:

Virtually all of the major autumn and winter holidays, including Hanukkah, Thanksgiving and Christmas, include candles in the decorations or services. Because little ones are attracted by candles and fire, take extra precautions to be sure these items are out of reach of climbing toddlers who might be burned by the flame or the hot wax or who may even start a house fire by tipping the candles over. And never hold a candle while carrying a baby. Many holiday ornaments and decorations are made of glass, which can break and cut tiny fingers or even be ingested. In addition, many ornaments are "miniaturized," which means they can pose a choking hazard to little ones. Even ornament hooks can come off and be swallowed. Be sure to place small or breakable ornaments high enough to be out of reach of children. If it's a tree you're decorating, put the larger, unbreakable ornaments on the lower branches.

Want to see more?

• Holiday Hazards: Keep Your Little One Safe This Season
• Holiday Safety Tips: Keep Your Baby Safe This Festive Season
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