Preventing Holiday Injuries

Now that Halloween has past, people are gearing up for the holidays. One of the most famous traditions of which is hanging lights and decorating for the season. This festive practice is fun, but it also can result in property damage, personal injuries and even death.

At Non-Surgical Orthopaedics, we want to help you prevent any injuries this season with a few helpful tips on what not to do.

1. WATCH your step if you are hanging lights. If you are using a ladder, make sure to have someone spot you. If you are hanging them inside, be careful not to slip on the tree skirt or other decor laying around the house. Always be aware of your surroundings to prevent a fall.
2. CHECK your string of lights. Is it labeled as safe for outdoor use? Don’t use them outside if they are intended only for inside use.
3. DON’T assume the string of Christmas lights is free of broken bulbs and frayed wires. Always check before plugging them in.
4. BLOW OUT candles before you leave your home or go to bed at night. Also, keep candles out of a child’s reach.
5. DON’T place your Christmas trees or decorations near fireplaces or radiators.
6. ONLY buy fake Christmas trees that bear the label “Fire Resistant” so that should you have a fire, the tree will extinguish more quickly.
7. NEVER allow small children and pets around holiday plants like holly berries, poinsettias and Christmas cactus, some of which is poisonous or can make them sick.
8. CHECK any spray snow and spun-glass that they are non-toxic. If they are toxic, use caution when decorating with them.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission says that during the months of November and December there will be more than 15,000 holiday decorating injuries. The most frequent incidents seen by the ER include falls, back strains and lacerations. Should you have an injury, be sure to contact your doctor right away to avoid long-term chronic pain. Give the physicians at Non-Surgical Orthopaedics, P.C. a call at (770) 421-1420 or visit www.lowbackpain.com.