Tis' The Season To Think Safety

Contact: Todd Costello (212) 297-2100

NEW YORK, NY (December 2009) — The holiday season is a particularly exciting and busy time for families. And with children out of school for winter recess, it’s also an important time of the year to be mindful of safety. Here are a few simple tips to keep your celebrations safe this holiday season:

Place your tree or menorah away from fireplaces, radiators or portable heaters.
In homes with infants and young children, avoid decorations that are sharp or breakable and do not hang trimmings that resemble candy or food that might tempt a young child to eat them.
Place space heaters, candles and other heat sources at least three feet away from all potentially flammable material such as bedding, furniture and drapes.
The Window Covering Safety Council (WCSC) is urging parents to use cordless window products in young children’s bedrooms and play areas. According to information provided by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, since 1990, more than 200 infants and young children have died from accidentally strangling in window cords. Replace older window coverings with today’s safer, cordless products.
Have your chimney inspected annually and cleaned if necessary.
Do not burn gift wrap, paper decorations or dry greenery in the fireplace. They could ignite suddenly, resulting in a flash fire.
Select toys to suit the age of the intended child. Do not give an infant a toy with small pieces that can be swallowed or inhaled.
Keep hot liquids and foods out of the reach of children.

"By following these simple precautions, parents and caregivers can help provide a safe and happy holiday for the entire family," said WCSC Executive Director Peter Rush. The Window Covering Safety Council is a coalition of major U.S. manufacturers, importers and retailers of window coverings. Consumers wishing to obtain additional information or replace their older window coverings can visit www.windowcoverings.org or call the WCSC toll-free phone line at 1-800-506-4636.