The holiday season is the most dangerous time of the year. The number of emergency room visits usually spike around the holiday season. This is primarily due to injuries commonly associated with holiday activities. There are many simple things people can do to minimize the risk of holiday injuries. A little bit of preparation and common sense goes a long way.
Slips and Falls
When water freezes over on the road or sidewalk, it can leave a slippery walkway for people. Make sure you are aware if there is ice where you’re walking, as sometimes it’s too thin to see.
People also can accidentally lose their balance when putting up holiday decorations. Always inspect your ladder for broken rungs and weak spots before you use it and make sure it is placed properly against your home.
Burns
This often happens when cooking for the holidays. Take great care when preparing your holiday meal so that you don't get splashed with oil or burned by the oven. Always use oven mitts to guard your hands and place foods in oil slowly and gradually to prevent oil splashing.
Candles can also be a culprit. Take care when you light them and always put them somewhere safe once they are lit so they do not catch other things on fire.
Cuts
The use of knives or box cutters always poses a risk for cuts during the holidays. Be very careful when using sharp tools. And use gloves as a precaution to protect your hands.
The Cause of Many Holiday Accidents
Unfortunately, drinking is sometimes the cause of injuries. Indulging in spiked eggnog or other alcoholic beverages while putting up decorations is a no-no. Countless people have ended up in the emergency room doing so. Make sure you are in a safe environment when you are drinking and only do it after you have completed decorating.
How to Avoid Holiday Injuries
According to the Consumer Protection Safety Commission, nearly 6,000 people were treated in emergency rooms last year due to accidents involving holiday decorations. Many of those probably could have been avoided. We all feel rushed during the holiday season. And although we have many things to do, no amount of rushing is worth sitting in the hospital with a serious injury.
Here are a few tips that can help avoid injuries:
Always check your Christmas tree, lights, and other decorations for fire hazards.
Protect yourself from sharp objects and keep them out of reach of children.
Always use caution when dealing with ladders and step stools.
Take care when cooking to prevent serious burns.
If you have sustained such an injury during this holiday season, you should call on a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Mayerson Injury Law is a firm with experienced professionals who understand the nuances of the law and can help to get you the compensation you deserve. Most importantly, we handle all personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you will not be required to pay anything upfront for our services.
Contact our firm today at (610) 492-7155 to discuss your case.