Lights, cameras, and festivities often round off the end of the year and help ring in the next. All of the decorations and extra trimmings also add to the charm and goodwill of the season. At Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys, our Chicago personal injury team wants only the best for you and yours during this often hectic and somewhat stressful time. That is why we put together the following list of tips to help you avoid experiencing or causing any holiday injuries and costly ER visits.
Place Safety First for a Merrier Holiday
- Lights & inflatables– Lights make everything sparkle and shine a little brighter during the holidays. Inflatables add a bit of whimsy to an otherwise flat yard. However, both can cast a bit of gloom if they are not handled with care. You can help ensure that your trees, homes and other holiday decor don’t ruin your merriment by checking thoroughly for the following:
- Watch for loose, broken or frayed wires to reduce the chance of a fire hazard;
- Verify that each light set/strand clearly states that they have been tested by an authorized lab; and,
- Make sure any variation of lighting you use is unplugged, blown out, and/or turned off when you are not around.
- Ladders – Most of us tackle the challenge of hanging lights and other holiday decor on our own. That includes hanging objects and light strands in high and at times, hard to reach places. In fact, approximately 20% of holiday injuries during the holidays include falls from ladders. Avoid becoming a statistic by:
- Using a ladder that can support your weight and that is the proper height;
- Having a spotter to ensure that the ladder is stable;
- Following the safety instructions listed on the ladder;
- Checking each rung and side for any damage before climbing;
- Avoiding electrical lines while on a metal ladder; and,
- Storing a ladder that is not in use to avoid it creating a hazard for others.
- Trees & wreaths– The smell of fresh greenery is just one of the reasons people enjoy bringing live trees and other greenery into their homes over the holidays. Unfortunately, they can also become a major fire hazard. Even fake trees and wreaths can catch fire and contribute to a home or business burning down. By taking extra precautions such as these, you can reduce the chances of having a fire hazard:
- Pick a fresh tree or other greenery that does not have needles that easily break off;
- Water your fresh tree and keep an eye on other greenery to ensure neither becomes brittle and dry;
- Check to make sure that any artificial trees or other decorations are fire resistant;
- Do not place paper ornaments near any electrical connections; and,
Contact Lerner and Rowe’s Chicago Injury Attorneys Today!
If you or a loved one suffered harm from a holiday injury due to the carelessness or negligence of another, our 24/7 personal injury team is here for you! You can count on us to hold those responsible liable for medical expenses, lost-wages, and other damages.
We are just one call, click, or chat away when you need help the most! Connect with us now at 844-977-1900 or use our convenient LiveChat feature. You can also get in touch with us via our online contact form. Plus, with free consultations and no fees unless you win compensation for a holiday injury case, you have nothing to risk by contacting us now!
The information on this blog is for general information purposes only. Nothing herein should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.