When families gather for the holidays, child safety can be overlooked in homes that are not childproofed. Experts warn that relying on close supervision alone is difficult during busy gatherings, and accidents remain the leading cause of death among children.
While many parents install gates, smoke detectors, and keep dangerous substances out of reach at home, visiting others—especially those without young children—can present new risks. Seasonal decorations, games, foods, and beverages may all pose hazards if proper precautions are not taken before and during festivities.
Homes of relatives or friends who do not have children may lack basic safety measures such as cabinet locks or outlet covers. Prescription medications left in accessible places are a particular concern since their appearance can attract young children. Parents are encouraged to ask hosts to store medications securely and to keep the poison control number (1-800-222-1222) readily available.
Parents should consider several questions before visiting another home: Is there a pool with secure fencing? Are firearms stored unloaded in locked boxes with ammunition kept separately? Are small objects like hard candy within reach? Are stair gates installed? Are hazardous substances safely stored? Does the household have pets that could harm children? Will foods containing allergens be served? Are matches and lighters secured out of children’s reach? In multi-level homes or apartments, are window guards or stops installed?
Toy safety is also emphasized. Plastic wrappings from toys should be discarded immediately. Toys should be checked regularly for damage or small parts that could pose choking hazards. Older children should keep their toys away from younger ones. Button batteries must be kept out of reach; ingestion can cause serious injury within hours.
“Holidays are fun times to share with family and friends, creating memories that last for generations,” states Prince William County Fire & Rescue System Chief Tom LaBelle. “Take the necessary precautions to keep your loved ones safe during the holiday season and throughout the year.”
Additional resources on holiday decoration safety can be found at HealthyChildren.org’s 12 Safety Tips for Holiday Decorations (https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/all-around/Pages/Holiday-Decoration-Safety-Tips.aspx), while general home safety guidance is available from Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU (https://www.chrichmond.org/services/injury-and-violence-prevention/home-safety-tips). For toy safety information and guides, visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s website at https://cpsc-d8-media-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/s3fs-public/281%281%29.pdf.
