Holidays bring seasonal hazards: Christmas tree ornaments and lights, Halloween candy with choking risks, Easter egg dye, and Fourth of July fireworks. Decorations are often at kid height, and visiting relatives may bring unfamiliar risks. Extra vigilance during holiday seasons pays off.
Related Terms
Any small object, food, or toy part that can block a child's airway. Kids under 3 are at the highest risk because they explore everything by putting it in their mouths. A quick rule of thumb: if it fits through a toilet paper roll, it's a choking hazard.
Keeping kids away from electrical outlets, cords, and appliances. Babies love poking things into outlets, and toddlers chew on cords. Outlet covers, cord concealers, and GFCI outlets in kitchens and bathrooms are essential.
Keeping toxic substances locked away and out of sight. Cleaning products, medications, laundry pods, and even some houseplants can poison a child. Store chemicals up high or behind locked cabinets, and save the Poison Control number: 1-800-222-1222.
Active, attentive watching of a child, especially around water, heights, and hazards. Supervision doesn't mean scrolling your phone while your kid plays near the pool. It means eyes-on, within arm's reach when needed, and knowing what to watch for at each developmental stage.