How to Avoid Accidents this Holiday Season

At Founders Family Medicine, we care about your health and wellness throughout the year. The holiday season is often a time when injuries from accidents occur. We’re here to offer tips to keep you and your family safe as we head into the new year.

If you experience an injury or illness requiring non-emergency medical attention, contact us to schedule an appointment or urgent care visit.

Tips to Avoid Common Holiday Injuries

Avoid Falls

Whether hanging or removing holiday lights, storing items on high shelves, or walking on snow or ice, be aware of the dangers of falling.

Falls are one of the most common causes of injury during the holiday season. Take extra precautions when walking on slippery surfaces like ice and snow. Wear shoes with good traction and be mindful of your surroundings. Additionally, keep walkways clear of clutter and debris that could cause you to trip or slip.

If you must use a ladder for any activity, ensure it is stable and secure. Also, make sure another person is nearby and knows you are working on a ladder. If a fall does occur, you can get help quickly.

Avoid Burns

Burns are another common injury during the holiday season. Be mindful when using candles, fireplaces, and space heaters to avoid burns. Keep combustible materials away from open flames, and never leave a lit candle unattended.

Additionally, keep children away from open flames and hot surfaces. Burns during cooking are common during the holidays. Practice safe cooking, such as using oven mitts and keeping pot handles turned away from the edge of the stove.

Avoid Food Poisoning

Food poisoning often occurs during the holiday season. To avoid food poisoning, practice safe food handling and preparation. Always wash your hands before and after handling food, and keep raw meats separate from other foods.

Additionally, cook all meats to their recommended temperature and store food properly. If you are serving food that has been sitting out for a while, make sure to discard it after two hours.

Finally, if you experience any symptoms of food poisoning, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, contact your doctor immediately.

Avoid Car Accidents

Car accidents cause many injuries during the holiday season. It is essential to practice safe driving habits to avoid car accidents. Always wear your seatbelt and follow all traffic laws. Additionally, be aware of other drivers on the road and give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination.

Avoid distractions while driving, such as using your phone or eating while behind the wheel. Also, never drink alcohol and drive. Select a designated driver or use a driving service like Lyft or Uber.

Keep Your Family Safe this Holiday Season

Following these tips can help ensure a safe and healthy holiday season for you and your family. If you experience an injury or illness requiring medical attention, contact us to schedule an appointment or urgent care visit.

Founders Family Medicine in Castle Rock offers expert care for you and your family.