BY JULIE YOUNG

Who hasn’t chuckled at the festive follies of Clark W. Griswold in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation? While slapstick shenanigans are a lot of fun to watch, real-life accidents are no laughing matter. Want to stay safe this holiday season? Here are some of the top household hazards and how to avoid them. 

Slips and falls are the most common holiday injuries, sending nearly 15,000 people to the emergency room each year. Whether you are climbing a ladder to hang lights, navigating an icy sidewalk or driveway, or shuffling around cords and clutter, use common sense, have a partner on site, and take preventive measures to avoid accidents that can lead to long-term recovery needs. 

Ornate packaging may enhance gift presentation, but the use of box cutters, scissors, and pocketknives results in more than 6,000 people being treated for cuts and lacerations during the holiday season. When wrapping a gift, keep it simple so there is no need for sharp objects to open the package. Also, be sure to have a first-aid kit nearby in the event of minor injuries. 

While we all love the sights and smells of the season, many of our favorite things also carry an increased risk of fire throughout the holidays. Candles, frayed wires, space heaters, busy kitchens, and dried-out trees can all spark a fire that turns a holiday dream into a nightmare. Minimize your risk by never leaving an open flame unattended, unplugging all lights at night, cleaning your chimney when you leave the house, and staying safe in the kitchen. 

Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, so take appropriate steps to reduce risks and avoid potential harm.