Here comes the holiday season, which can be a wonderful time of year, but can also present a special set of hazards to our collective health. From eating and drinking to weather to our busy schedules, everything’s a little different in November and December. Here are some thoughts on keeping yourself and your family safe.
Let’s start with eating. If you’re hosting a holiday dinner or party, be sure to prepare all foods according to instructions, and make sure you’re aware of any allergies among your guests. Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold to prevent foodborne illness. Make sure any leftovers find their way to the fridge promptly.
If you’re on the receiving end of all that food, try to maintain some balance. There’s nothing wrong with an extra cookie or some eggnog for most of us, but make sure you’re getting some nutrition in between all the treats, and make every effort to stay hydrated.
If your holiday plans take you away from home, lock your doors and windows securely. Use timers (or enlist the help of neighbors) to vary the lights that are on at any given time of day. And use social media to share what a wonderful time you had … after you get home. No need to advertise to burglars that you’re out of town.
Traveling by car? See our previous post on winter driving safety. If your travel involves getting on a plane, keep extra copies of important documents like tickets and ID, either in paper form or on your phone. And make sure to keep extra medications, phone chargers and hand sanitizer in a carry-on in case you and your baggage are separated.
Staying at home? Turn off Christmas lights before you go to bed and when you’re leaving the house. If you have a real tree, make sure it stays watered to reduce fire risk. Few things burn faster than a dry evergreen tree. And exercise extreme caution with candles, making sure they’re placed where little hands can’t reach them.
Finally, as much fun as the holidays can be, they can also be stressful and lonely for some of us. Make sure you’re taking time for yourself and getting in some exercise. Feel free to say ‘no’ to social obligations if you’re feeling exhausted. Reach out to loved ones if you’re feeling lonely or overwhelmed … and think about who in your circles might be struggling, and check in with them.
From all of us at Heart to Beat, best wishes for a safe and happy holiday season.
