ANY OF US look forward to the Christmas season with the same wonder, excitement and anticipation of childhood. The festive season brings with it its own peculiar traditions, with which we all comply in one way or the other. The celebrations and festivities of the Season, however, can sometimes get out of control. If we are not conscientious enough we may put our lives and the life of others at risk. It is therefore, pertinent that we take into consideration the health and safety risks associated with the celebrations at home, work and as we go about our daily activities.

Stay healthy and safe as you celebrate…
One of the secrets to having a pleasantly memorable Christmas is to be able to enjoy the fun, knowing that the risks have been properly assessed and appropriate safety measures put in place. Some of the activities associated with Christmas such as cleaning, setting up of decorations, electrical appliances and lights safety, toys and of course, the consumption of alcoholic beverages are risky activities and the necessary precautions should be taken.

In addition, many of our decorations and arrangements for Christmas tend to be temporary, often makeshift in nature and this fact alone greatly increases the risk of accidents occurring. It is, therefore, worth having a simple checklist of what we need to keep in mind to minimize any additional risks that might arise.

Cleaning and Decorations…
Decorations that were put away last year will be unpacked and new ones will be bought. Take care when unpacking or unwinding these especially the electrical ones. Be careful when cleaning and hanging decorations because this often means stretching to an extent that would not be permitted as part of normal work or home activities.

Be extremely careful when climbing on chairs or ladders as this all adds up to a recipe for falls that could easily result in bruises, fractures or worse.

Toys…

Pay special attention to the types of toys you purchase for children this holiday. Some toys, especially those with small parts, can be very hazardous to children. Ensure you buy toys that are educational and age appropriate.

Christmas Trees…
The Christmas tree is another favoured decoration. Whether real or artificial, it must be stable, especially if it is close to a walkway where it could be knocked over or if it is mounted on top of something else to give it additional height.

Ensure that the Christmas tree is placed in a suitable location where it will not be a hazard. Be careful with the Christmas tree and children who are often attracted to decorations.

Electrical Safety…
Each year we see more and more ingenious variations in Christmas lights. Low voltage ones are preferred as they pose less risk of electric shock (assuming they are properly installed).

However, even low voltage equipment is capable of starting a fire if it is faulty. When you set up your lights (or other electrically operated decorations), you will probably be using extension cables or at least have trailing wires so ensure you take extra precaution when connecting your lights. Do not leave on Christmas lights if you are going out.

This is also the time when a lot of preparation will be done; always ensure that precaution is taken not to start a fire.

Consumption of Alcoholic Beverages…
For most people, Christmas would not be Christmas without sharing a few drinks. But, we have to be aware of the hazards of drinking.

Be responsible when consuming alcohol; ensure that you are not putting yourself or anyone else at risk. Never Drink and Drive.

Fire….
Fire is an ever present danger. We have already mentioned some of the hazards, but almost everything else we have considered so far can contribute to the risk of fire or of hindering a prompt response should fire start.

Here are some other points to consider:
Ø Do not allow combustible waste materials to accumulate but keep the premises clean and tidy.

Ø Ensure decorations, Christmas trees, greeting cards, and other paraphernalia of the Season are positioned to avoid fires or contributing to the spread of fire should it occur.

Ø Ensure all electrical items are tested for safety and there are no trailing cables, daisy chained extension cables or wires which can contribute to trips or falls. In other words, good cable management is important even when the installation is only temporary

Ø If you must have electric lights, never leave them on when no one is at home. Unplugging all electrical appliances is always best.

Take the necessary actions to ensure your Christmas is safe and healthy!
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You can also share your ideas and questions by sending your letters to: “Our Environment”, C/o EIT Division. Environmental Protection Agency, Lot 7 Broad and Charles Street, Charlestown, GEORGETOWN. Or email us at eit.epaguyana@gmail.com with questions and comments.