Holiday Safety Tips

Here is a list of health safety tips during the holidays.

Alcohol- Can be dangerous if ingested by children or pets. Be sure all alcoholic beverages are out of the reach of children and pets.

Medicines- Be sure that all medications are stored safely and are not accessible to children

Toys- Be cautious when purchasing antique or foreign-made toys. They may contain high levels of lead. For toy safety please contact the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission at 1-800-638-2772

Candles- Never leave a lit candle unattended. Be sure candles are kept out of the reach of children or pets.

Button Batteries and Magnets- Pose a chocking risk if swallowed. Batteries can cause stomach burns if ingested. Magnets may attract one another internally and can cause serious damage to the digestive system.

Holiday Plants- Be aware that some plants are poisonous to people and/or pets. Holly, Jerusalem Cherry, Mistletoe, Boxwood and a variety of species of Yew can cause serious gastrointestinal problems. Call the NJ Poison Experts at 1-800-222-1222 to inquire about other plants which may be toxic.

Fire Salts- Can cause serious stomach problems if ingested. Be sure to keep them out of the reach of children.

Lamp Oils- If ingested lamp oil can get into the lungs and cause pneumonia or even death. Always keep lamp oil and oil lamps out of the reach of children and pets.

Wrapping Paper- Do not burn wrapping paper in a fireplace. Papers can contain toxic metals which can damage the fireplace or potentially cause a fire.

Cigars and Cigarettes- Keep ash trays and “butts” out of the reach of children and pets. If swallowed tobacco products can be poisonous.

Food- Be sure all food is handled safely. To obtain food safety tips please go to http://www.njpies.org/News-and-Events/Press-Releases.aspx.

Fireplaces- Have chimneys and flues inspected by a professional prior to using for the season. Carbon Monoxide is a colorless odorless gas that can cause serious health problems or death.