UT Police offer holiday safety tips

Time & Date

Wednesday, December 12, 2018

The UT Health San Antonio Police Department urges UT Health faculty, employees, students and visitors to keep safety a top priority both on and off the job during the holidays. The busy holiday season is full of “to-do” lists for both home and work. Hazardous travel, crowded stores, dangerous home décor and holiday parties all come with heightened stress, which can lead to accidents and injuries.

Here are some suggestions on how to enjoy a safe and happy holiday.

Christmas tree

Keep tree away from heat sources (vents, fireplace)
Place tree in a low traffic area
Dispose of tree outside soon after the holiday
Wash and store artificial trees in plastic bags
Carefully choose a tree that is not too dry – one without loose needles. Check a branch near the base
Bend to make sure they do not break
Preserve tree freshness by cutting a one- or two-inch diagonal slice off the bottom
Place tree in a sturdy stand and check water level daily

Lights

Examine holiday lights before hanging them. Replace any missing bulbs or broken parts Check lights by setting them on a nonflammable surface and plugging them in for 10-15 minutes. Look for signs of melting or smoking
Keep lights away from curtains or flammable materials
Make sure cords and plugs do not come in contact with water
To prevent overheating, pinching and fraying, do not run cords under carpet, rugs, or behind furniture
Never connect more than three sets of lights to an extension cord
Unplug all lights before you leave the house or office or go to bed

Workplace decorations

Keep garlands and fragile glass ornaments out of reach of children
Check older ornaments to ensure they are free of toxic materials such as lead paint

Holiday food

Keep hands and work areas clean and free of contaminants
Keep hot foods hot and cool foods cool
Cook food thoroughly and store properly to avoid food poisoning

Fireplace

Always use a fire screen.
Do not burn trash in fireplace
Do not wear loose clothing or synthetic materials that are prone to melting when tending a fire
Keep flue open until all embers have burned out
Dispose of ashes in a metal container
Make sure fire is out before leaving or going to bed
Keep candles away from curtains and out of reach of children
Never place lit candles on or near a Christmas tree
Check smoke detectors once a month

Holiday traveling