Happy Holidays and Holiday Safety

The holidays are a joyous time of the year for children as well as adults, with the anticipation of being with family, friends and giving and receiving gifts. It is also an important time to be mindful of
your children's safety.

Most parents understand the importance of childproofing their homes: gates on stairs, keeping medicines and other potential poisons locked up and out of reach, and not having candles or other sources of heat or flame unattended. But, we must remember that when we visit friends and relatives for the holidays, that their homes may not have the same safeguards in place. Therefore, ask adult guests to take turns watching the children or hire a trusted babysitter during holiday parties, and make safe play rules clear to children in your home and when you visit others.

Also, if you are travelling during the holiday season, it's wise to bring emergency equipment:

•  first aid kit
•  flashlight
•  blankets
•  drinking water and snacks
•  flares and jumper cables...among other things.

My husband always 'over-prepares' but I am glad he does, because there have been many times when what he packed was very useful and necessary while travelling.

•  Adjust your schedule to allow plenty of time for travel
•  Keep in mind that the roads will be especially busy, so be realistic when estimating the amount of  time it will take to reach your destination
•  Keep distractions to a minimum, as much as possible, because everyone is in a hurry to get  to their destinations and people are under a lot of stress
• Resist the temptation to talk on the phone while driving.The goal is to get their safe
• If you feel tired, switch drivers or pull over at a safe location for a nap
• Make sure you pack plenty of activities for the kids

We don't like travelling much at this time of the year, or any holiday for that matter, but most of our friends and family are local, so we stay close to home, as much as possible. However, for some this may not be an option.

So, whether you are staying home, or travelling, have a Safe and Joyful Holiday Season.

We wish you a Merry Christmas,
 and  a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year!!!!!!!!!!