Tips for the prevention of accidents on Christmas

Precautions to take into account at Christmas and New Years. Don’t let anything bother you this Christmas!

The Christmas season begins. Time full of parties and celebrations. But there are also additional risks that we don’t usually pay as much attention to. The most frequent accidents at Christmas are those related to fires, burns and motor vehicles, which are directly related to the consumption of alcohol.

The experts, faced with the most common situations of accidents at Christmas, give a series of tips to avoid unwanted situations this holiday season:

LIGHTS AND DECORATION

Colored decorations, lights, a tree, … are essential when preparing the Christmas decorations. A series of precautions must be taken into account when organizing this type of decoration. First of all we must be careful when placing them. Be careful with the use of ladders, they must be positioned on a stable surface and not left half open. If possible, ask for help so that you don’t have to go up or down with your hands busy with decorations or tools.

It is advisable to place the Christmas tree out of the way, either inside the home in a home decoration such as in an office or workplace, in low traffic areas. As well as placing it in areas away from curtains or other flammable elements.

In addition, with decorative Christmas lights we must take into account that they are susceptible to causing electrocution or fire. Therefore, we must correctly plan the placement of the lighting. So if it is placed outdoors, it is necessary to make sure that the lights have the appropriate degree of protection, that they are not damaged like bare cables. Furthermore, the plugs must not be overloaded.

In the same way, it is necessary to pay attention to the arrangement of candles, place them out of the reach of children and animals, as well as flammable elements.

Check that the extinguishers are operational and in perfect working order.

RISKS OF PYROTECNIA

Pyrotechnic material is widely used at this time, and it is hazardous material. Therefore, we must make responsible use of it. It is important to take into account that they are used in open spaces, not to light them by holding them with the hand or throw them at other people. Nor should we place them near elements that can project fragments. Avoid in any way that children operate pyrotechnics without adult supervision.

It is advisable to take some precautions such as not keeping this material in pockets or on clothing, as it can cause burns. Preferably turn it on on the ground and against the wind. If possible, light it with a wick instead of a direct flame and always away from the face. It is advisable not to light it near others or inside objects. Never step on them and if for some reason the item does not explode, do not try to turn it on again and better cover them with water.

AUTOMOBILE RISKS

One of the risks that skyrocket at Christmas is car accidents. Long trips back home, trips after parties, drinking alcohol, at night, tired, etc. They are the main causes of these accidents multiplying in these parties. This type of accident is the main cause of hospitalization at Christmas, so it is advisable to take a series of precautions:

• Avoid driving under the influence of alcohol and / or drugs.
• Avoid overloading vehicle passengers
• He drove productively, without speeding or distractions, like the mobile phone
• Correct maintenance of the vehicle, especially tires and lights
• Avoid driving tired or sleepy
• Always wear a seat belt

In addition to these precautions, it is advisable to take into account the usual recommendations for travel in winter, since adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow or frost are common on the path.

Christmas is a holiday to enjoy with family and loved ones. Take the required precautions to avoid unnecessary risks and be able to enjoy these celebrations smoothly. Beware of excesses in meals and enjoy these endearing parties to the fullest.

Happy Holidays!

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* Information obtained from: www.msmprevencio.co