5 Holiday Safety Tips from a Personal Injury Attorney~2 min read

The holidays bring joy and celebration, but they can also present risks. With the increase in travel, shopping, and festive decorating, it’s important to take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from accidents. Here are some practical tips to help you stay safe this season.

1. Drive Responsibly During Holiday Travel

Busy roads and tight schedules can lead to accidents. Protect yourself by:

• Avoiding distractions. Keep your phone out of reach and stay focused on driving.
• Planning ahead. Allow extra time to account for holiday traffic and weather conditions.
• No drinking and driving. Use a designated driver or rideshare service if you’re celebrating with alcohol.

2. Shop Safely and Stay Alert

Holiday shopping, whether in-store or online, comes with its own risks.

• Be cautious in parking lots. Watch for cars backing out and avoid walking while on your phone.
• Secure your belongings. Keep purses, wallets, and shopping bags close to avoid theft.
• Use safe payment methods online. Stick to secure websites and avoid entering personal information on public Wi-Fi.

3. Stay Safe While Decorating Your Home

Holiday decorations can be beautiful, but they can also be dangerous if handled carelessly.

• Use a sturdy ladder for hanging lights and have someone hold it steady.
• Inspect electrical decorations for frayed wires or loose connections before plugging them in.
• Secure Christmas trees properly. A stable tree base can prevent tipping accidents, especially in homes with kids or pets.
• Avoid overloading outlets. Plugging too many lights or decorations into one outlet can cause electrical fires.

4. Host Gatherings Responsibly

If you’re hosting a holiday party, take extra precautions to keep your guests safe:

• Keep entryways clear of ice, snow, or other tripping hazards.
• Provide plenty of lighting around your home, especially outside.
• Monitor alcohol consumption to ensure everyone has a safe way home.

5. Stay Safe in the Kitchen

Cooking for family and friends is a big part of the holidays, but kitchen accidents are common.

• Keep pot handles turned inward to prevent spills.
• Watch out for kids. Make sure sharp tools and hot surfaces are out of their reach.
• Use timers to avoid forgetting food in the oven or on the stove.

Contact Springer & Lyle

Even with the best precautions, accidents can still occur. If you or a loved one is injured during holiday season, the experienced attorneys at Springer & Lyle can help. Contact us today 940.387.0404 to schedule a free consultation. Springer & Lyle is located at 1807 Westminster, Denton, TX 76205.