Hidden Holiday Hazards: How to Avoid Dangers in Champagne Pops and Christmas Trees

 The Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary has compiled a list of seasonal safety tips and advice to make sure your holiday doesn't go from merry to scary. 

1. Christmas trees can be somewhat hazardous for many members of the family. Branches and needles can spring forward and people may be hit in the face or eye when first untying a live tree, so caution is urged. When hanging ornaments, any glass, or anything with sharp edges or corners, place them out of the reach of children. 

2. Avoid toys that shoot objects, have parts that fly off or have sharp edges and make sure children have appropriate supervision when playing with potentially hazardous toys or games that could cause injury. These toys do not only pose just a choking hazard to the child but can also damage the eye if struck by one of the parts. 

3. When purchasing toys, look for the ASTM label, which means the product meets the safety standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials. Also check labels for age recommendations to make sure the toys are age suitable. 

4. When gifting any type sports equipment, do not forget to include protective eyewear. Polycarbonate lenses are recommended for general safety. 

5. When driving during longer road trips to visit friends and family, drivers' eyes can easily become irritated. Stop and take breaks frequently. If your eyes become dry or if it difficult to see when you are driving, try saline eye drops. They will help remoisten the eyes and "wake" them up. 

6. If you are popping champagne for New Year's celebrations, be sure to keep the cork pointed away from everyone. Pressure can build up in the bottles and send the cork rapidly through the air. Or better yet, wear eye protection. 

7. "Be careful around open flames and space heaters. We tend to see a lot of facial burns during the winter months," says Dr. Matthew Gardiner, Director of Emergency Ophthalmology Services at Mass Eye and Ear.

For more information visit the Mass Eye and Ear Website.