Though holiday decorations may make people feel merry and bright, they could also be the cause of some serious injuries.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), about 15,000 people across the country were injured while decorating for the holidays during November and December of 2012.
The projected number of decorating-related injuries has risen every year since 2009, causing approximately 12,000 trips to the emergency room.
“There are about 250 injuries a day during the holiday season. Adding safety to your checklist can keep a holiday tradition from becoming a holiday tragedy,” said CPSC Acting Chairman Robert Adler, in a news release. “Keep Christmas trees watered well, don’t leave candles unattended, and use caution whenever you are on a ladder.”
Falls were the most common injury, accounting for about 34 percent of emergency room visits. About 11 percent of emergency room trips were due to lacerations and about 10 percent were cause by back strain.
Between 2009 and 2011, about 200 fire departments across the country were called to put out fires in houses where the Christmas tree was the first thing to ignite, according to the CPSC. These fires left 10 people dead, 20 people injured and caused about $16 million in damages.
Candle-related fire was also problematic during that time frame, resulting in about $308 million in damages, 680 people injured and 70 dead.
The CPSC has released a number of tips to help keep families safe while they deck the halls. Here are some points to keep in mind:
- Be cautious on ladders and follow the instructions on the warning label
- If using a real tree, make sure it is fresh
- If using a fake tree, make sure it is fire resistant
- Houses with small children should make sure that candles, breakable decorations or small decorative items that kids could choke on are placed out of reach
- Keep an eye on lit candles and put them out before leaving the room
- Purchase holiday lights that have been tested for safety
- Examine holiday lights and extension cords for damage before using
For injuries due to a faulty or unsafe product, go to SaferProducts.gov to make a report or read reports from other consumers.
