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Holiday Hazards
Keep Your Little One Safe This Season
By Crystal Patriarche
Candles and Fireplaces
Flickering candles and warm fires in the fireplace are also nice to have during the winter and to celebrate Christmas and Hanukkah, but open flames are enticing for little ones and can cause serious burns. "In our home, we celebrate Hanukkah," says Pressendo. "Last year, as we were lighting candles, Steven got a little too close to the menorah, and wax dripped on his hand. The burn wasn't too bad, but did leave a red mark. This year, I'll put the menorah on a large platter and declare a 'no-go' zone around it."
As for fireplaces, be sure to have a protective screen and proper ventilation. "If you have a propane, natural gas or wood-burning fireplace, you need a carbon monoxide detector," says Mummert. "Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless and deadly. There's nothing sadder than a family that goes to sleep trying to get warm and doesn't wake up." Experts say to avoid burning wrapping paper and the Christmas tree itself in the fireplace (because it gets too hot, too fast) and to clean out the chimney once a year.
"Everybody is distracted during the holidays – family is over, and there's a lot going on," says Mummert. "That's why it's especially important to keep your eye on the kids."
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