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Our weekly news column bringing the most current, non-biased health
information to the consumer. |
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December 09, 2008 |
A Publication of QVHD |
Accidents Don't Take Holidays!
By: V. Deborah Culligan, RN, MPH,
Deputy Director QVHD
Fo much of injury
prevention is just common sense! How often have you injured yourself and
afterwards said, I knew I shouldn't have done it that way
Often, the
end to this sentence is but I was in a hurry!
We are busy people. And we do rush through life. Add to that the extra
activities and stress that accompany the holiday season and you have
created a great environment for an accident. In fact, statistically,
injuries occur more frequently during the holiday season. Here are some
safety reminders for the holidays.
Slow down!
Don't do something in a manner in which you know isn't the correct way
to do it. (Then you won't have to say I knew I shouldn't have done
that!)
If you give sporting equipment such as skateboards, skates or bicycles
for holiday presents be sure to add the proper protective gear.
Emergency rooms report an increase in fractures within the few days
following the holiday due to spills, falls and collisions.
Candles, while beautifully casting a warm glow, can be very dangerous
any time of the year. But during the holiday season, people use them
more often. Frequently they are placed near greens that become quite
flammable as they dry out. Children can also bump into them.
Speaking of children, the holidays can present some special risks to
them. Emergency rooms often see children for holiday-related injuries
like aspirated pine needles, little ornaments or artificial snow.
Poisoning can be a big problem, too. Many holiday plants and berries are
poisonous (to your pets also.) Alcohol poisoning can also occur if
little ones get their hands on glasses with small amounts of leftover
drinks. It doesn't take much alcohol to poison a small body.
Keep the tree watered. Do not place it near a heating source. Never go
out or to bed with lights left on. Inspect light string for frays or
breaks. Of course, it goes without saying a lit candle on a tree is not
a very good idea. (While we're discussing fire safety, take time to
check your smoke detectors. Also, never go out or to bed with a clothes
dryer running. Family friends recently lost their home as a result of
this. Dryer fires are a leading cause of home fires!)
Alcohol doesn't mix very well with stress, winter driving (or any
driving.) It can also create an environment for squabbles to get out of
hand. We always think, it will happen to the other guy, but
intoxication can lead to mistakes in judgement that can have a lifelong
impact.
Take time to enjoy the season. Try to remember the true reason for
celebration. The December holidays are held in remembrance of miracles,
not spectacles. For more information on this topic, District residents
can call QVHD, 248-4528 or request on line, www.qvhd.org .
| An Ounce of Prevention is a
publication of the Quinnipiack Valley Health District, located at
1151 Hartford Turnpike, North Haven, CT 06473. Telephone:
248-4528. An Ounce of Prevention is
written by V. Deborah Culligan. The articles are published in the following local newspapers, The Advisor &
Beth-Wood News.
The content is provided as health education and
information to help you make health decisions. It is not intended to
be legal or medical advice, or substitute for recommendations made
by your health care provider. Address all comments to the district
office. |
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