Steps to a safe holiday season for all begin with you
Published on Thursday, December 5, 2024
By: Rachel Vanderford, rvanderford@umc.edu
The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration and togetherness, but it can also bring unique health hazards that may land you in the emergency room if you’re not careful.
Decorating safety
Decorating your home is a cherished holiday tradition, but it can also be dangerous. According to McKenzie, ladder injuries are a frequent cause of ER visits during the holidays. “The primary cause of ladder injuries is not keeping a person’s weight centered on the ladder,” he said. “Over-reaching shifts the person’s center of gravity and reduces the stability of the ladder."
To stay safe while decking the halls,
- Reposition the ladder frequently: Move the ladder to ensure it is directly under the area you’re working on rather than leaning or reaching.
- Use the right ladder: Make sure your ladder is the appropriate height for the task at hand.
- Follow basic safety rules: Keep three points of contact on the ladder (two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand), and ensure it’s placed on a stable, level surface.
Recognizing cardiac risks
The holiday season sees a surprising increase in cardiac events, but the reasons behind this trend remain unclear. “While there is a clear increase in cardiac events during the holiday season, the reasons for this are not known,” McKenzie said. He cites common theories such as elevated stress levels, colder weather, and delays in seeking care due to reluctance to spend the holidays in the hospital.
“Irrespective of the cause, chest pain should never be ignored." McKenzie said, “Chest pain should be evaluated by a physician without delay.” If you experience symptoms such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath or dizziness, seek medical attention immediately. Early intervention can save lives.
To reduce cardiac risks this holiday season:
- Manage stress through mindfulness, exercise or taking time to relax.
- Avoid overindulging in salty or fatty holiday foods, which can exacerbate heart conditions.
- Stay active and dress warmly if engaging in outdoor activities during colder weather.
Holiday gatherings and crowded events are a hallmark of the season, but they can also be hubs for respiratory illnesses, including colds, flu and COVID-19. McKenzie advises caution, particularly in crowded environments. “Avoid large crowds as much as possible…somebody in that crowd is sick,” he said.
To minimize your risk of getting or spreading illness:
- Wash your hands frequently: Proper hand hygiene is one of the easiest and most effective ways to reduce the spread of germs.
- Stay home if you’re sick: If you’re feeling unwell, protect others by staying home or wearing a mask in public spaces.
- Get vaccinated: Keeping up to date with flu shots and COVID-19 boosters can provide additional protection during the holiday season.
Don’t drink and drive
The holidays often involve celebrations where alcohol flows freely but driving under the influence is a dangerous mistake that puts everyone on the road at risk. McKenzie’s advice is clear: “Don’t drink and drive. Prearrange a designated driver or call an Uber.”
To ensure a safe holiday season:
- Plan transportation ahead of time if you know you’ll be drinking.
- Use rideshare services or public transportation if a designated driver isn’t available.
- Be vigilant about other drivers who may be impaired—stay alert and drive defensively.
By making responsible choices, you can prevent accidents and ensure everyone makes it home safely.
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