Tis the season to be jolly, but it’s also a time when accidents can happen more frequently.
At TP Safety Services, we want to help you stay safe this holiday season by sharing some Festive Safety tips and tips to avoid common Christmas accidents.
“Festive Safety Made Simple: 26 Tips From A-Z” is a 26-day journey as we countdown to Christmas with a the risks you should be aware of this holiday season..
Day 1 – A is For …..
A is for Alarms!
This festive season, ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are tested and fully functional. Press the test button regularly, and check the batteries or replace the unit if it’s over 10 years old. A working alarm is your first line of defence against the increased fire risk from candles and electrical decorations.
Day 2 – B is For …..
B is for Baubles!
While beautiful, many decorations pose a risk. Keep fragile or small glass baubles out of reach of young children and pets, as shattered glass can cause serious injury and small components can be choking hazards. Choose shatterproof decorations when placing items lower down on the tree.
Day 3 – C is For …..
C is for Candles!
Never leave lit candles unattended, and always extinguish them before leaving a room or going to bed. Keep them at least three feet away from flammable materials like curtains, wrapping paper, and your Christmas tree. Consider switching to battery-operated LED candles for a safer festive glow.
Day 4 – D is For …..
D is for Drinks!
If celebrating with alcohol, plan your transportation home safely well in advance. Never drink and drive, and be sure to look out for friends and colleagues who may need help getting home safely. Enjoy the celebrations responsibly and know your limits.
Day 5 – E is For …..
E is for Electricity!
Avoid overloading electrical sockets, as this is a leading cause of house fires during the holidays. Use a power strip with surge protection, and never run extension cords under rugs or across high-traffic areas where they could be damaged or cause a trip hazard.
Day 6 – F is For …..
F is for Fires!
Ensure everyone in your home or workplace knows the emergency escape plan in case a fire breaks out. Practice the route and ensure all fire exits are clear, accessible, and not blocked by decorations or excess storage. Remember to call emergency services from a safe location.
Day 7 – G is For …..
G is for Guests!
If you are hosting, ensure all pathways and common areas are clear and well-lit to prevent trips and falls, which are common during parties. Pay special attention to loose rugs, stairs, and walkways leading up to your door, especially for elderly guests.
Day 8 – H is For …..
H is for Hazards!
Be extra vigilant for potential outdoor hazards common in winter, like icy paths, fallen branches, or uneven ground. Clear snow and use salt or grit on walkways to maintain safe access to your home or business premises.
Day 9 – I is For …..
I is for Ingestion!
Many festive items are toxic if swallowed. Keep holiday staples like festive plants (holly, mistletoe, poinsettias), small batteries (from toys or lights), and even rich festive foods out of reach of children and pets. Know the emergency numbers for poison control.
Day 10 – J is For …..
J is for Jackets!
When you are out and about during the darker winter evenings, take precautions to stay visible. Wear light-coloured or reflective clothing so that you can be easily seen by drivers, cyclists, and other pedestrians.
Day 11 – K is For …..
K is for Knives!
Exercise maximum caution when preparing your festive meals, as cuts are common holiday injuries. Keep sharp knives out of reach of children and always cut away from your body. Wash knives separately from other items to avoid reaching into soapy water and being cut unexpectedly.
Day 12 – L is For …..
L is for Ladders!
When putting up indoor or outdoor decorations, always use a sturdy ladder or step stool. Avoid standing on chairs or other unsteady objects. Have someone steady the ladder for you, ensure the ground is level, and never overreach to place a decoration.
Day 13 – M is For …..
M is for Motors!
If travelling by car during the holidays, ensure your vehicle is roadworthy for winter conditions: check tires, fluid levels, and lights. Pack an emergency kit including blankets, water, and a charged phone. Be aware of changing weather and plan your routes accordingly.
Day 14 – N is For …..
N is for Nurturing!
The festive season can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Remember to schedule in breaks, set realistic expectations, and prioritise your mental well-being alongside your physical safety. Don’t be afraid to say no to requests if you feel overwhelmed.
Day 15 – O is For …..
O is for Overindulgence!
While tempting, be mindful of overeating and drinking to excess to prevent indigestion, dehydration, or other health issues. Remember to maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated with water, not just festive drinks.
Day 16 – P is For …..
P is for Proper Lifting!
With all the heavy boxes of decorations and presents, remember manual handling safety. When moving items, bend your knees, keep your back straight, and lift with your legs. If an item is too heavy or awkward, ask for assistance to prevent muscle strain or injury.
Day 17 – Q is For …..
Q is for Quiet Time!
Amidst the festive hustle, ensuring you get enough restful sleep is critical for safety. Being well-rested helps you stay alert, manage stress better, and significantly reduces the risk of accidents caused by fatigue, such as kitchen mishaps or driving errors.
Day 18 – R is For …..
R is for Rubbish!
Dispose of gift wrap, packaging, and food waste promptly and safely. Don’t let waste build up inside your home or near exits, as paper is highly flammable and excessive clutter is a major tripping obstacle. Use appropriate recycling bins.
Day 19 – S is For …..
S is for Scams!
Stay safe online this Christmas, as scammers are highly active. Be extremely wary of unsolicited emails, texts, or calls asking for personal or financial information. Only shop through trusted websites and verify charities before donating to protect your money and identity.
Day 20 – T is For …..
T is for Trees!
If you have a real Christmas tree, keep it well-watered to prevent it from drying out and becoming a significant fire hazard. Ensure your tree is placed away from all heat sources, including fireplaces, radiators, and space heaters.
Day 21 – U is For …..
U is for Unplug!
Make it a habit to unplug all Christmas lights, electrical decorations, and non-essential appliances whenever you leave the house or go to bed. This simple step eliminates a major fire risk and conserves energy.
Day 22 – V is For …..
V is for Ventilation!
During winter, people often seal up homes, which increases the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, especially if using gas appliances or burning candles/fires. Ensure adequate airflow and ventilation, and never use BBQs or generators indoors.
Day 23 – W is For …..
W is for Wires!
Ensure all wires and extension cords for lights and electronics are tucked neatly away, secured with tape, or covered. Wires running across floors are a huge tripping hazard, especially in low light or high-traffic areas.
Day 24 – X is For …..
X is for eXtra Care!
The holidays can be a time of rush and distraction. Take a moment to pause and exercise extra care and mindfulness with everything you do—whether it’s driving, cooking, or climbing a ladder—to avoid preventable accidents and injuries.
Day 25 – Y is For …..
Y is for Youngsters!
Keep an eye on the little ones, who may be attracted to shiny hazards. Ensure small toys, button batteries (a major hazard), and choking hazards from packaging or decorations are kept out of reach, especially during the excitement of unwrapping gifts.
Day 26 – Z is For …..
Z is for Zero Excuses!
When it comes to safety, there are no compromises. Always prioritise well-being for yourself, your family, and your colleagues this Christmas. Making safety a priority is the best gift you can give.
And That’s A Wrap
As we release the last door and close out the 2025 calendar of health and safety the team at TP Safety Services wishes you a Merry Christmas and a safe and prosperous new year.
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