Be safe this holiday
It’s the most wonderful — and hectic — time of the year.
It can also be a dangerous one because more of us are preoccupied. The American Red Cross has offered a list of holiday safety tips.
• Prepare your vehicle for traveling. Build an emergency kit and include blankets, jumper cables, fire extinguisher, maps, shovel, tire repair kit and pump, extra clothing, flares and a tow rope. Check tire air pressure, and make sure the windshield fluid is full. Avoid distractions such as cell phones.n Avoid driving in a storm. But, if travel is a must, let someone know the destination, the route being taken and how long it should take. if the car gets stuck along the way, help can be sent along the predetermined route.n Buckle up, slow down and, if holiday cheer is involved, designate a driver.n help prevent the spread of the flu. Stay home if sick. Wash hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub. Cover nose and mouth with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing.n Dress like Santa — in layers. When it’s cold outside, layered lightweight clothing will keep a person warmer than a single heavy coat. Gloves and a hat will prevent loss of body heat.n be a lifesaver. The Red Cross recommends at least one person in every household be trained in first aid and CPR/automated external defibrillator. also, use a Red Cross-trained baby sitter when leaving your children. Visit redcross.org/en/takeaclass and click on babysitting for details and to register.n Heat your home safely. Never use a stove or oven to heat the home. Never leave portable heaters or fireplaces unattended. Install smoke alarms. Get the furnace cleaned and change the filters. Make sure furniture is not blocking heat vents.
First published on December 22, 2011 at 5:16 am
