Don’t look now but Christmas is just a little over a month away! Unquestionably, the holiday season is in full swing. This time of year is a joyous one filled with celebrations and gatherings with loved ones. For many seniors, decorating is a cherished tradition that brings warmth and festivity to their homes. However, the process of putting up holiday decorations can pose safety risks.

What steps should be taken to prioritize safety while decorating for the holidays?

Use stable ladders and step stools.

Speaking of “steps”, we often have to elevate ourselves in order to reach high spots for our holiday decorations. Taking these steps without caution is a top way for seniors to get injured. Always use a stable ladder with non-slip feet. Make sure to have a spotter hold it steady and offer assistance, if needed. As well, always keep three points of contact with the ladder. That’s two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand.

“Use a ladder or stool when hanging decorations above head height,” advises the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS), “Do not use chairs and other furniture that are not designed to be stood upon.”

Prioritize fire safety.

We all love the twinkling lights and candles that are synonymous with holiday decorations. It’s vital to be mindful of the ones that may present fire risks. So, before you start stringing up the lights, inspect them for frayed wires, broken bulbs and loose connections. Be sure to replace damaged lights to prevent electrical fires. Opt for LED candles too. These flameless alternatives provide the same festive glow without the fire hazard.

Remember that scene in A Christmas Story when the old man was plugging in his beloved new leg lamp? It overloaded the circuits and temporarily blew a fuse. It was funny in the movie. It won’t be funny if it happens to you! Remember that plugging too many decorations into a single outlet can lead to electrical fires. Use power strips with built-in surge protectors and space out electrical usage.

Not to mention, “tissue paper, lights, and candles are just a few of the most common flammable items in holiday decor,” Senior Helpers reminds us, “Always make sure to follow manufacturer instructions for use to prevent fires…If you prefer a real tree, be sure to water it daily as dry trees are highly flammable.”

Keep all of your walkways clean and tidy.

Holiday decorations should add beauty to your home, not create tripping hazards. Keep all electrical cords and decoration wires out of walking paths. Use tape or cord protectors to secure them in place. Be sure to avoid placing decorations where they could block doorways or narrow hallways.

As Workplace Safety & Prevention Services instructs, “don’t block aisles, walkways or exits with decorations, displays, banners, signage, etc.; secure electrical cords and cables to prevent slip, trip and fall hazards.”

If there is anything the LifeCare Mobility Solutions team can do to make your holiday season a safe and enjoyable one, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Call us at 416-267-9800, email us at info@lifecaremobility.ca or fill out the form on our Contact page. Be sure to ask us about all of our mobility solutions and home modifications for seniors!