Health Tips for December 22

Health Tip: Decorate for the Holidays Safely

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. Health Tip: Recognize the Signs of Drowsy Driving The lull of a relaxing drive can make you too sleepy to continue behind the wheel. If you feel yourself getting too tired, it's important to get off the road and give yourself a break. The U.S. National Safety Council offers this list of warning signs that you should check into a motel for the night: When your eyes keep closing or slip out of focus. When you yawn repeatedly. When you begin to feel especially impatient, irritable or restless. When you have trouble concentrating. When you can't remember driving the previous few miles. When you begin swerving into another lane or onto the shoulder. When you begin missing traffic signs, tailgating or driving too fast or too slowly. When you feel tension in the back, a burning sensation in the eyes or feel shallow breathing.