Hidden Dangers in Holiday Toys and Decorating

This time of year, everyone is busier than ever planning holiday meals, decorating, gift shopping and entertaining. However, amidst all the excited hustle and bustle, the holidays can bring extra hazards right into your home, including injuries from decorations, new toys and unforeseen accidents. The American Academy of Pediatrics shares a number of safety tips for the holidays:

Button batteries and small magnets – Button batteries, also known as coin lithium batteries, cause serious illness, stomach and intestinal problems, and even death when swallowed. You may not realize these small batteries are often found in items lying around the house such as musical greeting cards, remote controls and hearing aids. Small parts like magnets and tiny parts on toys also can be a choking hazard to young children.

Pull toys with strings – Toys with strings longer than 12 inches can be a strangulation hazard for babies and toddlers. Also, keep ribbons, tags and strings away from kids and monitor them closely when they are around or opening gifts decorated with strings.

Tree decorations – decorating a tree is a favorite holiday pastime, but it can pose many hazards and dangers for children. Avoid tree trimmings that are sharp or breakable. Ornaments with metal hooks, as well as those with small removable parts that could be a choking hazard, should be hung at the top of the tree out of reach of small children. Also, avoid decorations that resemble candy or food, which may tempt small children to eat them.

If your child or loved one has been injured by a toy or holiday decoration or in any other accident, you should speak with an experienced personal injury attorney. At Dixon Law Office, we have helped many injury victims get the compensation they deserve, and we can help you, too. Contact us today to set up a meeting with a lawyer to discuss the specific facts of your injury case at 888/354-9880 or click here.