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Several accidents can occur during the holiday season. Be aware and prepare to have a good time without incident.

We all look forward to the holiday season for a well-deserved break. This festive season has a positive connotation for many, with decorations, presents, good food, and family time. However, it is important to be cautious, as an accident can happen quickly, and it is better to be aware and prepared.

Decorations and DIY: annoying cuts

Handling paper, ribbons, and scissors can result in cuts, and we all know how those small cuts can itch and become infected. If this happens, clean the wound with water and soap and have a first aid kit nearby containing bandages and dressings.

Homemade dishes: burns and scalds

During the holidays, it's great to have meals with family, but be careful with hot dishes! If a burn occurs, put the burned limb under running water for 15 to 20 minutes. Cover the burn with sterile gauze pads and dressings. If the pain persists, do not remove the dressing and saturate it with water. Remember! Never put grease on a burn. If it is a significant burn, call 911 and follow the dispatcher's instructions.

Inconveniences of the holidays: falls and injuries

It is easy to fall when putting up lights on the roof or putting the star on top of the Christmas tree. Never use a chair or a stool to reach elevated places. Take a ladder instead and be careful not to overreach. Stability is key. In the event of a fall, remain still and evaluate your condition. Call 911 if you detect any trauma (sprains, fractures, head or spinal injuries).

Fire risk: the importance of checking your smoke detector batteries

The fire crackles in the fireplace, its warmth fills you with happiness, a small scented candle burns near you, an ideal and cozy evening. However, never leave a flame unattended. Make sure to extinguish it when you leave the room and check your smoke detector batteries to sleep peacefully.

Opening champagne: watch out for the cork

It's so nice to open a bottle of champagne during the New Year's countdown. The cork is gone so quickly! Did you know that the cork expelled by a champagne bottle travels at a speed of 40 km/h? Watch out for your eyes! Avoid aiming at a person when uncorking a bottle. In case of an accident, consult a doctor quickly, as the eyes are extremely fragile organs.

The party-pooper: alcohol overconsumption

Watch out for that one extra drink. If you want to celebrate with alcohol, space out your alcoholic drinks and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. If a person collapses due to alcohol overconsumption, make sure they are breathing and place them in the recovery position and do not leave them alone. Call 911 and follow the dispatcher's instructions.

Food allergies

Always check the ingredients of the food you serve and keep your adrenaline auto-injector close to you. Be alert!

Obstruction of the airways

To avoid the possibility of choking in children, keep appetizers and decorations that can resemble toys out of their reach. For adults, be careful with large bites. If a person is choking completely (unable to cough, breathe, or speak), call 911 and perform the Heimlich maneuver. Stand behind them and put one of your legs between theirs for stability. Then, wrap your arms around them and make a fist with both hands that you will place above their navel. With a sharp motion, make the shape of an inverted 'V' to try to expel the object."