Holiday tips for Safety and Gift Giving

Want to save time, money and stay safe this holiday season–consider these tips.

Electricity bills can grow during the holidays if you decorate with strings of lights. Consider switching to LED lights to save energy and money. In addition to the energy and cost savings, LED lights are much cooler than incandescent bulbs, reducing the risk of fires. Every holiday season, fires claim lives and cost millions in damage. To prevent holiday fires in your home, use nonflammable decorations; do not overload electrical sockets; regularly water Christmas trees; and avoid the use of lit candles. As you should do year-round, ensure that your smoke alarms are working.

Reduce Holiday Waste

The holiday season includes many opportunities to reduce waste, recycle, and reuse items. Did you know that about 40 percent of all battery sales occur during the holiday season? Consider buying rechargeable batteries (and a charger) for electronic gifts to help reduce the amount of harmful materials thrown away. After the holidays, look for ways to recycle your tree instead of sending it to a landfill. If you plan to send greeting cards, consider purchasing ones that are made of recycled paper or sending electronic greetings.

Buy Safe Toys

If you plan to buy toys for the kids in your life, choose age-appropriate toys and look for labels with safety advice. For young children, avoid toys with small
parts, sharp edges, and electric toys that can heat up. Always purchase safety gear in addition to sports-related gifts or ride-on toys, such as bicycles or skateboards.   And the last tip–A Christmas dog is a mistake.  A puppy will melt your families hearts for a few days.  But then the responsibility hits of having to walk the dog in inclimate weather,  and all  the other responsibilities  needed for dependable and conscientious animal care .  Having a pet is not cheap.  It is essentially like adding another family member to your house with food, vet bills, and supplies. Reality will soon supersede the Christmas morning fantasy.

I hope these  tips will help you and your family have a wonderful holiday season.

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