The holidays are a magical time to deck the halls and make cherished memories with loved ones. But amidst the twinkling lights and festive cheer, accidents and injuries can happen—especially to kids. At FirstKids Urgent Care, we understand how quickly a joyful moment can turn into a stressful one when a child gets hurt. That’s why we’re here to help you navigate common holiday injuries and offer tips to keep your little ones safe.
1. Falls
Decorating for the holidays is a fun family activity, but it can be dangerous, especially for kids who like to climb to “help” out. Whether it’s reaching for ornaments or stepping on wobbly furniture, falls are a leading cause of holiday injuries for children. Make sure to supervise kids closely when they’re around decorations. Keep ladders and step stools out of their reach and secure heavy items to prevent tipping. If decorating outdoors, set clear boundaries so children aren’t underfoot while adults are climbing ladders or stringing lights.
2. Fires
Holiday fires are a serious concern, and kids are naturally curious about candles, lights, and ovens filled with goodies. December sees the highest number of candle-related fires, and Christmas trees can pose a significant risk if not properly maintained. To keep your family safe, place candles out of reach of children and use battery-operated alternatives if possible. Keep kids away from the stove and oven when cooking and teach them about the dangers of touching hot surfaces. Regularly water live trees to prevent them from drying out, and ensure any string lights are in good condition and not overloaded on outlets.
3. Car Accidents
The holidays mean more travel, and with kids in the car, staying safe on the road is of the utmost importance. Tuscaloosa’s bustling roads, combined with holiday traffic and unfamiliar routes, can increase the likelihood of accidents. Always use proper car seats or booster seats for your children, depending on their age and size, and double-check that they’re secured correctly before every trip. Avoid distractions, drive defensively, and make frequent stops if you’re traveling long distances to let kids stretch their legs. And of course, never drive under the influence.
4. Toy-Related Injuries
For kids, toys are the highlight of the holidays—but they can sometimes lead to unexpected injuries. Nationwide, thousands of children are treated for toy-related injuries every year. Whether it’s a non-motorized scooter mishap, choking on small toy parts, or a sibling scuffle over who gets to play with the new gadget first, these incidents are all too common. To avoid these issues, check the age recommendations on toys before purchasing, inspect for any loose parts, and supervise playtime. Teach your kids how to use their toys properly and encourage them to take turns to minimize accidents.
5. Holiday Food Mishaps
Holiday gatherings often include a feast of delicious foods, but certain holiday treats can pose choking hazards for young children. Hard candies, nuts, and even small holiday cookies can be dangerous for little ones. Always keep an eye on what your children are eating and cut food into small, manageable pieces for toddlers and younger kids. Encourage them to sit while eating to reduce the risk of choking.
6. Sledding and Outdoor Injuries
If Tuscaloosa gets a rare winter chill complete with winter wonderland vibes (if only for a few hours) and kids head outside to enjoy the weather, slips, trips, and sledding injuries can occur. Even a light frost on playground equipment or driveways can lead to falls and scrapes. Make sure children wear appropriate footwear with good traction and supervise outdoor activities to keep them safe. If sledding, makre sure they are in a safe, clear area away from streets or obstacles.
The holidays are a time to celebrate, and at FirstKids Urgent Care, we’re here to help if accidents happen. From bumps and bruises to more serious injuries, we provide compassionate care tailored to children. Walk-ins are welcome, or you can book an appointment online. Let us help keep your holidays merry and bright! Call us at (205) 374-8899 for our telemed offerings or to learn more about all the ways we can help you and your family this holiday season and beyond