Five Expert Tips to Avoid the Emergency Department This Holiday Season

Holiday Accidents

Every year, many people miss out on fun like football games and big dinners because of accidents that could have been prevented.   

If something does go wrong, MetroHealth’s emergency care team is here to help. But we’d rather help you stay safe and enjoy the season. Anthony Zalewski, RN, BSN, MHA, our Injury Prevention & Outreach Coordinator, has some easy tips to help you avoid common holiday accidents.     

Why Accidents Happen More During the Holidays

People are often in a hurry during the holidays. They’re trying to do too much at once and aren’t paying close attention. That’s when accidents happen. Drinking alcohol can also make it easier to get hurt.  

“We always see more Emergency Department visits because people rush through things during the holidays. They have a long to-do list, so they aren’t putting their full attention into each task,” says Anthony Zalewski. “Most accidents are preventable.” 

Tip #1: Stop Fires Before They Start

Fires can happen fast and cause serious injuries.

“Backyard bonfires, batteries, decorative lights—these are triggers for Christmas fire hazards,” Zalewski says. “They do damage to your home, and they cause significant burns. So, taking proper safety steps is important.”

• Batteries: Use safe chargers and don’t overcharge. Keep batteries dry and at room temperature.
• Candles: Keep candles away from things that can catch fire. Never leave them burning alone. Try battery-powered candles instead.
• Tree lights and dry branches: Check for broken wires or bulbs. Use LED lights—they stay cooler. Water your tree every day so it doesn’t dry out and catch fire.

Tip #2: Stay Sharp About Kitchen Safety

The kitchen gets busy during the holidays. Choose a “kitchen captain” to help keep things organized.

“There’s a lot going on—hot surfaces, sharp blades, boiling liquids. Closely monitor what you’re doing and where you’re moving,” he says. “It’s especially important with kids in the kitchen because they’re inquisitive and can get into things.”

Watch out for:

• Burns: Hot oil, boiling water and hot pan handles are the most common causes of burns. Always use oven mitts when grabbing handles and slide heavy pans to avoid scalding spills. Keep pot handles turned in so you don’t accidentally bump them.
• Grease fires: If oil catches fire, turn off the heat and cover the flames with a metal lid. Never use water! Avoid using a glass lid as it could shatter. Use baking soda or salt to put out small fires.
• Knife cuts: Use sharp knives on flat, stable surfaces. Dull knives are more likely to slip and cut you. Hold knives with the blade down. When passing a knife, hold the outside of the blade and hand it off handle first.

Tip #3: Keep Food Safe

Food poisoning can ruin your holiday. Here’s how to keep food safe:

• Cooking temperatures: Eat only fully cooked meats, and avoid buffets where food isn’t kept at the right temperature. Meat should have an internal temperature of 165°F. Hot foods on buffets should be at least 140°F, and cold foods should be at or below 40°F.
• Food storage: Store leftovers in air-tight containers, aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Keep your refrigerator at 40°F or below and your freezer at 0°F or below.
• Thawing and reheating: Thaw food in cold water, the microwave or in the refrigerator. Never defrost on the countertop. Reheat food within two hours to 165°F. Only reheat food once.

Tip #4: Keep Toys and Batteries Safe

Some toys have small batteries that look like candy. These can be dangerous if swallowed.

• Keep batteries away from kids.
• Avoid toys with button batteries or magnets.
• If you think your child swallowed a battery, go to the Emergency Room right away.

Tip #5: Watch Your Step Outside

Outside activities require a few extra precautions, Zalewski says. Cold temperatures are dangerous, so protect yourself with layers. And when numb tingles appear in your fingers and toes, go inside.

• Ladders: Have someone hold the ladder when you hang lights.
• Sledding: Pick a safe hill and wear a helmet.
• Slips and falls: Salt icy sidewalks and wear shoes with good grip.
• Snow shoveling: Take breaks and lift with your legs. Never use your hands to clear a snowblower.

Also, be careful with alcohol. It can make you feel warm even when you’re getting too cold. If you feel sleepy or your arms and legs feel heavy, go inside and warm up.

MetroHealth Is Here If You Need Us

We hope you stay safe and enjoy the holidays. But if you do get hurt, MetroHealth’s Emergency Departments are ready to help—day or night.

Bookmark these tips to keep your holidays safe and joyful.

Your Questions Answered

Q. What are the best ways to prevent indoor falls during the holidays?

A. Keep walkways clear of clutter like shoes, bags or boxes. Make sure rugs don’t slide around. Wipe up any spills or melted snow right away so no one slips.

Q. Where can I find a MetroHealth Emergency Department?

A. We have emergency departments open 24/7:

• Brecksville Health and Surgery Center
• Cleveland Heights Medical Center
• Main Campus Medical Center
• Parma Medical Center

Q. Can MetroHealth treat kids in the Emergency Room?

A. Yes! MetroHealth takes care of both kids and adults. We’re proud to be Cleveland’s top Level I Adult Trauma Center and Level II Pediatric Trauma Center.