Health Canada recently published a helpful list of ways you can stay safe during the winter holidays. Here are a few of our favourite tips.

• Keep a close watch on candles and fireplaces. Make sure children, paper, fabric and flammable items are well away from the flames. Use sturdy candle holders and clip the wick short before lighting.
  
  
• Choose age-appropriate toys for gifts. Packaging materials, batteries and small pieces on toys meant for older children can be hazards for toddlers.
  
  
• Prevent allergic reactions. When choosing clothing or cosmetic gifts, find out if your loved one or friend has any allergies prior to purchasing.
  
  
• If you decorate with a real tree, make sure it’s always well hydrated and away from high-traffic areas and sources of heat. Also, remember to recycle your tree after the holidays as soon as the needles start to fall.
  
  
• For real and artificial trees, avoid sharp decorations and use a sturdy stand. Use only CSA, ULC or C-UL approved indoor lights, and avoid using bubbling lights around children and pets to prevent potential chemical burns from broken bulbs.

Look for more helpful holiday safety tips from Health Canada, and get more home safety tips from The Co-operators.