Holidays 411: Baby proofing for the holidays

December 22, 2:54 AMBaby and Toddler ExaminerDarby Herrington

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Baby's first Christmas or Hanukkah is special.  Just be sure that it is also safe.  If you have a baby or small child at home or are expecting one to visit during the holidays, beware of certain dangers around your house that can easily go overlooked. 

While it is common to be distracted amidst the holiday hustle and bustle, here are some important safety reminders if a baby or toddler will be in your home this holiday:

• Mistletoe and Jerusalem cherry are poisonous.  If eaten by a baby or small child, they can be deadly.  Do not even bring these in your home if there will be little ones around.
• Holly and poinsettias are slightly poisonous.  Large quantities have to be consumed for serious consequences to occur, but it is better to be safe and keep them out of reach of curious hands.
• Pine needles can be irritating or cause an allergic reaction.  Some babies or children may be allergic to evergreen trees.  Keep pine needles swept up and off the floor as much as possible.  If swallowed and lodged in the throat, they can cause a croupy cough and you should seek medical attention.
• Christmas trees are generally hazardous.  Always keep a close eye on babies or toddlers around Christmas trees.  Small ornaments and ones with detachable parts are a choking hazard.  Some ornaments are fragile and can be easily knocked off the tree and broken, leaving sharp pieces in baby's reach.  Trees can also be easily pulled down on top of a child as their branches and lights are enticing to grab onto.  And of course, trees are a fire hazard in the home and must be watered regularly.
• Snow globes are not toys.  Beware of heavy snow globes on table tops that can be pulled down or toppled over onto little heads.  If broken, the liquid can become contaminated with germs.  Even if just cracked, snow globes should be thrown away. 
• Artifical snow can be a respiratory irritant.  If anyone in your family has respiratory issues, artificial snow should not be used in your home. 
• Tinsel and angel hair are a choking hazard.  Angel hair is spun glass which can irritate skin and eyes and cause internal bleeding if ingested.
• Gifts may not be baby-friendly.  Gifts under the tree and opened gifts left unattended may be potentially hazardous items.  Keep all gifts that are not for the little ones out of reach.
• Food and drink can be dangerous.  Remember when putting out hors d'oeuvres that what is okay for adults and older children may be choking hazards or may be dangerous for young children and babies.  Be mindful of putting out hard candies, nuts (potential allergen) and other snacks.  Never leave cocktails unattended on coffee tables or within the reach of little ones.  Use caution when serving hot coffee, tea or other hot food and drink that could burn a child.  Hundreds of children are rushed to the emergency room each year during the holidays from food related injuries that could have been easily prevented.

Enjoy your holidays with reasonable care and caution, especially if you will have children or babies around.  If it is impossible to fully baby proof your home, the general rule of thumb is to never leave babies or young children unattended.  With constant adult supervision, they are much more safe and less likely to get into trouble.  Then everyone can rest easy and delight in holiday celebrations together. 

Have a happy and safe holiday!

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