All of us at Amerikidz want to remind parents to be even more aware of the hazards in your home during the holiday season. This is a very busy time for families and with all the excitement in the air we tend to overlook things that we normally wouldn’t.

As our homes become filled with family, guests and visitors remember that not everyone is familiar with your house or environment. If you have a swimming pool be sure to advise parents to be aware of their children’s whereabouts at all times. It is a good idea to put up an extra barrier at the back door during this time.

If you share the tradition of a Christmas tree make sure it is not easily accessible to a crawling baby or small child. Lights can become very hot to the touch and electrical cords can be chewed or pulled. A temporary barrier can keep these accidents from happening.

An older sibling in your household may receive toys as gifts that can be hazardous to a smaller child. Often times these toys have sharp edges or small pieces. Be sure that toys meant for older children are kept out of the reach of crawling babies.

Make sure that you have either a fireplace screen or glass doors over the opening of the fireplace to prevent a small baby or child from reaching into the fire. If you have a gas fireplace make sure that the gas valve is turned completely off after using the fireplace and be sure to remove the gas key from the turn on valve and place out of the reach of all children.

A nicely decorated package may contain a gift item inside that is wrapped in plastic. This can be a hazard to small babies. The baby could possibly suffocate or swallow a piece of the plastic. Be sure to pick up these and dispose of them immediately. It is also a good idea to pick up the ribbons and wrapping paper right after opening gifts and dispose of them right away.

If you have decided to bring home a new pet make sure that you keep the pet food out of reach of the smaller children. Pet food can be a choking hazard to a crawling baby.

These safety tips are not meant to alarm you. We have offered them to you as an extra precaution. We hope that these tips help make you more aware so that you and your loved ones enjoy a wonderful and safe holiday season this year.

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