Health Tip: Decorate for the Holidays Safely

(HealthDay News) — Some holiday decorations can be unsafe, posing hazards for adults, children and even pets.

The American Academy of Pediatrics offers these guidelines for choosing holiday decorations:

  • Make sure tree lights and decorations are flame-resistant or non-combustible.
  • Keep candles away from trees and natural evergreen decorations. Make sure candles are in a place where they can’t be knocked over.
  • Don’t use decorations with small parts that can be pulled off and swallowed by young children.
  • Don’t use decorations that look like food. Young children may be tempted to eat them.
  • Be careful when using “angel hair,” or spun glass, as well as sprayed artificial snow. Take steps to protect your eyes, skin and lungs.