It’s that time of year again!  The excitement of  decorations in and around the house, friends and family popping by for that last minute holiday visit, and little ones anxiously awaiting the night they can try to sneak a peek of Santa shimmying down the chimney with his bag of goodies!

Before we get too comfortable in our own homes, the California Poison Control System wants to make sure that you know, no matter the state in which you live, or how careful you think you may be with holiday planning, there are some very important safety tips to be aware of over the next few weeks.

National Poison Control Hotline
1-800-222-1222

The number one pointer would be to familiarize yourself with your state or city’s poison control center, in the event you you have any local questions or concerns. Check out the America Association for Poison Control Centers for a location near you.

Top 12 Holiday Safety Tips

  • Don’t let babies chew on foil wrapping paper. It may contain lead.
  • Holiday gifts can have flat, coin-shaped batteries. If swallowed, these can cause serious burns, choking and lead exposure.
  • Keep all batteries away from babies, kids and pets!
  • If using snow spray indoors be sure to open windows. Solvents in the spray cans may cause nausea, lightheadedness and headache.
  • Poinsettias won’t kill you. Ingestion may cause mild stomach upset, but aren’t fatal.
  • Pine needles can get stuck in the throat and cause choking in small children & pets. Keep swept up.
  • Carbon monoxide: open chimney flues, never use stove or BBQ for indoor heat & keep outdoor generators away from windows.
  • Holly & mistletoe berries can cause nausea, vomiting & diarrhea if eaten. Pyracantha berries are safer substitute.
  • Lead can still be found in new and used children’s products, like toys, backpacks, lunchboxes & jewelry. Find out about product recalls & tested products at healthystuff.org
  • Have the poison control number programmed into all phones. Call anytime, 24/7 for expert advice or questions. We’re here to help.
  • Holiday visits from grandparents? Purses/bags attract curious kids. Be sure any medicines are put out of the reach of kids.
  • Washing hands, counters & cutting boards with hot water & soap and washing fruits & helps prevent food poisoning. Utilizing a soap dispenser is highly beneficial for maintaining cleanliness and preventing the spread of germs.

The above information was provided by:

California Poison Control System
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