10 tips for staying safe (& out of the ER) during holiday decorating

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By Good Info News Wire

December 5, 2024

Wisconsin Emergency Management gives advice on avoiding being one of the 15k people who go to the ER each winter for holiday decorating injuries.

The festive season brings an array of twinkling lights and cherished decorations to homes across Wisconsin, but it also introduces hidden safety risks that many overlook. Each year, thousands of Americans face holiday-related injuries and accidents, prompting Wisconsin Emergency Management to issue crucial safety guidance for the season.

Holiday decorating injuries prompt safety concerns

According to recent data from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, approximately 160 people suffer decoration-related injuries daily during the holiday season. Last year alone, emergency rooms nationwide treated roughly 14,900 people for injuries sustained while decorating for the holidays, with falling accidents accounting for nearly 50% of these incidents.

“The best way to enjoy peace of mind during the holidays is to remember safety comes first,” said Wisconsin Emergency Management Administrator Greg Engle. “By taking a little extra care your home can be a place of cheer, not danger.”

Fire safety takes priority during festive season

The National Fire Protection Association reports that fire departments respond to an average of 835 home fires originating from decorations and 155 fires specifically related to holiday trees. To minimize fire risks, experts recommend:

Regular watering of live trees and maintaining a three-foot distance from heat sources
Using only three sets of connected incandescent lights to prevent electrical overload
Immediate replacement of damaged light strands
Constant supervision of lit candles and using flameless alternatives when possible
Nightly unplugging of all decorative lighting

Practical steps for safer decorating

To prevent common decorating accidents, Wisconsin Emergency Management recommends:

Using appropriately sized and sturdy ladders
Wearing slip-resistant footwear
Avoiding furniture as makeshift ladders
Maintaining clear pathways free of decorations and cords
Addressing uneven walking surfaces promptly

For those hosting holiday gatherings, additional safety measures include keeping cooking areas free from decorations and distractions, maintaining easy access to fire extinguishers, and ensuring smoke alarms are properly functioning on every floor. Families are also encouraged to create and practice emergency escape plans.

For more comprehensive holiday safety information, visit ReadyWisconsin’s website or follow their social media accounts on Facebook, X, and Instagram.