Festive candles, fairy lights and tall trees may make your home cosy and festive this season but there are so many hidden dangers to watch out for this Christmas, especially with little people around.
Remember these simple tips to ensure your child's safety around the holidays so you can sit back and relax and enjoy the most wonderful time of the year.
If you have a real Christmas tree, make sure to keep it well watered, keep it away from heat sources and never spray hairspray on the pine to prevent them from dropping off.
Hang ornaments strategically out of reach of small children and pets. Breakable ornaments should be up high away from little hands. It may also be a good idea to avoid tinsel with a toddler too, it poses a huge choking risk.
Anchor your tree. Regardless of whether your tree is artificial or fake, secure your tree to the wall or ceiling. If your baby is crawling around with curiosity, place a fence around the Christmas tree to help prevent any accidents or falls.
Candles are dangerous all year round and should be mounted securely in non-flammable bases and heat resistant surfaces. Keep candles away from children, Christmas tree's, draft and vents.
No matter the time of year, check for product recalls. Every year warnings are sent out by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission for products that have been found to have a mechanical fault, pose potential fire hazard or risk of choking. Subscribe to their newsletter for alerts.
If your child is receiving a bike, scooter or even skates, be street smart and gift them a helmet to match. Helmets are essential in protecting their skull should they have a bad fall when playing outside. Light coloured clothing and reflective wear should be worn when cycling both day and night to increase visibility.
In the lead up to Christmas, clean out the oven or stove and remove any grease or grime that may have built up over the years.
Put a fire safety plan into action. If an unexpected fire occurs in your home, your family's ability to get out alive all comes down to warnings and advance planning.
Make sure smoke alarms are in working order, keep escape routes clear and free from clutter and practice fire safety drills regularly especially with young children.
One socket, one plug. Don't overload electrical sockets, especially over the holidays. Make sure all electrical leads and plugs are free from fraying and deterioration regularly.
If using lights outside your home ensure they are fit for purpose. Only use lights specifically made for outdoor use. Examine bulbs each year before mounting to your wall, secure them safely and never use indoor extension cords outside.
When it comes to buying lights, purchase lights marked with a safety standard and if in doubt throw them out - you can never be too careful.
