Release Date: December 8, 2009
Contact: Christine Patmon, Metro Health Public Relations Manager, 207-8638
Think Safety this Holiday Season
2008 marked second highest toy-related injury year since 1994
A short time remains before many children in our community begin unwrapping Christmas and other holiday gifts. San Antonio’s public health team encourages parents and others shopping for toys to use caution to ensure the holiday excitement does not turn into tragedy.
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, 19 children under the age of 15 died as a result of toy-related injuries in 2008. In this same age group, nearly 173,000 estimated toy-related injuries led to emergency room treatment, which was the second highest number since 1994. Although the majority of these deaths were associated with riding toys, several fatalities occurred as a result of choking on balls, toy parts, balloons or other injuries.
“We cannot stress enough the importance of selecting age-appropriate gifts, purchasing safety equipment such as helmets and pads for riding toys, and keeping an eye on children as they play,” said Director of Health, Dr. Fernando Guerra. “The federal government has enacted new safety rules aimed at decreasing children’s exposure to lead paint but parents still need to assess other dangers.”
Everyone is reminded to continue other holiday safety tips, including those for flu prevention. The following guidance is applicable during the holidays and year-round:
• Cover your cough and sneeze with a tissue or inside of your elbow or sleeve
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water; if unavailable, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with your hands
• If sick, stay home
• Get your novel H1N1 and seasonal flu shots – check with your health care provider on availability
Food Safety
• Prepare, cook and store food safely:
o Thaw turkeys or other meats in the refrigerator, cold water, or microwave
o Cook meats and items containing raw eggs thoroughly
o Separate raw meats from other foods – do not cross-contaminate
o Clean all produce thoroughly
o Refrigerate leftovers within two to four hours maximum
o Do not prepare food for others if you are sick
Physical Health
• Avoid overeating
• Do not overindulge in alcoholic beverages
• Get physically active– don’t wait for the new year
• Do not neglect your physical activity routine
Injury Prevention
• Use caution when hanging or removing Christmas lights and decorating the tree:
o Use ladders and step stools appropriately – do not stand on furniture or other unstable objects
o Do not create tripping/slipping hazards with tree skirts, light cords, etc.
o Do not leave tree lights or candles lit unattended
• Attend commercial or public displays if ringing in the new year with fireworks
o Reminder: fireworks are illegal within City of San Antonio limits
• Do not drink and drive – use a designated driver or call a taxi
• If traveling on the road:
o Get plenty of rest before the trip
o Wear a seat belt and be sure to secure children safely
o Stay alert while driving
NOTE: All City offices will be closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
