For immediate release: December 1, 2006 (06-200)

Contacts: Kathy Williams, Emergency Medical Services, 360-236-2862
                    Mary Borges, Washington SAFE Kids coordinator 360-236-2861
                    Jeff Smith, Communications Office 360-236-4072

OLYMPIA ¾ There’s a lot to do during the holidays, and taking a few precautions can make this year’s festivities safer. The Washington State Department of Health has a holiday reminder that will help people keep their homes safe from fires and children injury free.

Place your Christmas tree far away from a heat source, including fireplaces or heat vents, and dispose of extra tree branches outside. Never put tree branches or needles in a fireplace or wood stove – they cause flare-ups and too many sparks. At the end of your holiday celebration recycle your tree instead of burning it.

Inspect holiday lights for frayed wires, bare spots, gaps in the insulation, broken or cracked sockets and excessive kinking or wear. Connect strings of lights to a sturdy extension cord before plugging the cord into the outlet. Do not overload outlets and only use UL-approved lighting. Holiday lights should always be attended.

Burning candles are another potential hazard. If you do use them, make sure they are in stable holders and away from combustible items. Place them where they cannot easily be knocked over.

Ask any kid during the holidays and they’ll agree that it’s the most wonderful time of the year —and getting toys is the top reason. There are five toy hazards that can take all the fun out of any celebration:

• Magnets – For children under age six, avoid building sets and other toys that contain small magnets. If swallowed, serious injuries and/or death can occur.
• Small parts – For children younger than age three, avoid toys with small parts, which can cause choking.
• Ride-on toys – Riding toys, skateboards and in-line skates go fast and falls could be deadly. Helmets and safety gear should be sized to fit.
• Projectile toys – Projectile toys such as air rockets, darts, and sling shots are for older children. Improper use of these toys can result in serious eye injuries.
• Chargers and adapters – Charging batteries should be supervised by adults. Chargers and adapters can pose thermal burn hazards to children.

Most toys are safe, yet some can become dangerous if used incorrectly or handled by very young children. Look for toy labels that give age and safety recommendations and use that information as a guide.

Select toys to suit the age, abilities, skills, and interest level of the child who’ll receive the gift. Look for sturdy construction, such as tightly-secured eyes, noses, and other potential small parts. Avoid toys that have sharp edges and points for all children under eight.

The Department of Health Web site (http://www.doh.wa.gov/Topics/holiday_season.htm) has more information in the "Featured Topics" section. Safe toy information is available on the Consumer Product Safety Commission Web site (http://www.cpsc.gov/).

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