Whether in the office or at home, everyone needs to be extra careful and alert during the holidays. Because people are trying to pack so much into their day, accidents can happen.

At home, Allstate cautions to be alert to fire hazards, which can lead to substantial losses.

The LiVe Well Intermountain Trauma Managers Group lists some steps that can be taken to promote a safe environment:

Avoid Falls

1. Keep sidewalks, driveways and entrances free of snow and ice. Falling on icy sidewalks is the number one cause for visits to the emergency department. Use sand or ice melt to prevent slipping.
2. Falls while putting up lights and decorations is another. Do not use stools or chairs for hard-to-reach areas. Rather, use a sturdy ladder and have additional help.
3. Ensure that your office or home is free from items that may cause people to trip or stumble, especially around a Christmas tree or other decorations with extension cords and light strands.

Safety Checks

1. Check your furnace. It should be cleaned and checked regularly by professionals.
2. Inspect fireplaces for safe operations. Use a screen or glass front, never leave a fireplace unattended and don’t burn gift wrappings, tissue, or evergreens in the fireplace.
3. Make sure circuits are not overloaded.
4. Check cords and plugs for wear, frayed insulation, cracks, and loose connections.
5. Place a tree away from heat sources and open flames. Check the lights before placing them on the tree. Look for loose sockets or broken and frayed wires.
6. Turn lights off when you leave.
7. Never use a regular string of lights on a metal tree. The danger of shock is great. Rather, use a spotlight to illuminate a metal tree.

Holiday Driving

1. Allow extra time for heavy traffic and poor weather conditions.
2. Be courteous and respect the rights of pedestrians and other drivers.
3. Be on the look-out for inebriated drivers.
4. Expect the unexpected from pedestrians carrying large holiday packages.