The American Red Cross-Knoxville Area Chapter encourages
you and your family to read and use these tips to help
keep you safe during the holiday season. For more information
on staying safe year-round, call your American Red Cross
at (865) 584-2999.
- Beware of holiday lighting. Take
care when burning candles. Be sure they are kept away
from decorations or other combustible materials. Don't
leave children unattended in a room with lit candles,
and always keep candles, as well as matches and lighters,
out of the reach of children. Never display lighted
candles in windows or near exits. Lit candles should
not be used as tree decorations.
- Decorate only with flame-retardant or noncombustible
materials. Avoid using candles during parties.
If guests will be smoking, provide them with large,
deep ashtrays and check them frequently. After the party,
check inside and under upholstery and in trash cans
for cigarette butts that may be smoldering.
- Keep Christmas trees fresh. Choose
a fresh Christmas tree and secure it in a sturdy stand.
Place the tree away from heat sources and exits, and
water it daily. If you purchase an artificial tree,
be sure it is labeled as fire-retardant. If you plan
to hang stockings on your fireplace, do not use the
fireplace for fires.
- Designate a driver. When attending
a party, always designate a non-drinking driver. If
you are the host of a holiday gathering, be sure there
are non-alcoholic beverages available for guests who
are driving.
- Buckle up. During the holiday months,
people travel more than ever. Wearing a seat belt is
the easiest and best way to prevent injury in a motor
vehicle collision. Ensure that all passengers are also
wearing safety belts.
- Enroll in a first aid and CPR course.
Although these tips can help prevent an emergency, it
is also important to be prepared should an emergency
situation arise. To enroll in a first aid or CPR course,
contact your American Red Cross.
- Get your furry friends a special gift.
Our Pet First Aid book
is an important reference guide for anyone with
a cat or dog. Contact your American Red Cross
to purchase your copy, or ask for Pet First Aid
at your local bookstore.
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