Sher Kirk - Operations Director - Utility Safety Partners
As we head into another holiday season, we would like to remind you to keep safety top of mind while celebrating with friends and family. The Government of Canada offers some insightful and seasonal reminders on GetPrepared.gc.ca called the 12 Days of Holiday Safety. Below is a condensed version – please visit the website for full details.
On the First Day … prepare your home for safe holidays. Make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector, smoke alarm, fire extinguisher and a first aid kit.
On the Second Day … make a plan. Your family may not be together when an emergency occurs. Plan how to meet or how to contact one another, and discuss what you would do in different situations.
On the Third day … think about special needs. Establish a personal support network of friends, relatives, health-care providers, and neighbours. Write down details about accommodation needs, allergies, family medical history, medical conditions, etc. Check out this Guide.
On the Fourth Day … decorate with safety in mind. Never leave burning candles unattended and keep them away from children and pets, decorations and wrapping paper.
On the Fifth Day … make your tree safe. When buying a real tree, check that it is fresh (needles are hard to pull off). Water the tree daily. Place the tree away from high traffic areas, doorways, heating vents, radiators, and other heat sources.
On the Sixth Day … keep lights bright. Only use lights that have been certified by a recognized organization such as CSA, ULC or C-UL. Check the light strings and extension cords, throwing out any that are frayed or have exposed wires. Never run electrical cords through doorways or under carpets.
On the Seventh Day … choose appropriate toys. Always follow age recommendations when choosing toys for children. Pay attention to Health Canada's recalls and safety alerts.
On the Eighth Day … get ready for severe winter weather. Blizzards, ice storms, and high winds can develop quickly. Listen to local radio or television stations for severe weather warnings and advice.
On the Ninth Day … prepare your car for an emergency. Install winter tires and make sure windshield washer fluid is always topped up. Prepare a kit to keep in your vehicle in case of an emergency. Use this list to help you.
On the Tenth Day … prevent illness. Protect yourself and others from getting the flu. A flu shot is the safest and most effective way to prevent infection, to reduce the severity of your symptoms if you do get sick, and to keep from spreading the virus to others.
On the Eleventh Day … learn first aid. Knowing first aid could save a life. Contact your local Canadian Red Cross or St. John Ambulance office to find out about first aid courses in your area.
On the Twelfth Day … know the risks. Knowing the risks where you are can help you better prepare and eliminate stress…especially during the holiday season.
Happy Holidays from USP and Public Safety Canada!