Toronto Central CCAC's "10 Tips for a Safe Holiday"

Toronto's home and community care organization wishes everyone a safe season

TORONTO, Dec. 20, 2013 /CNW/ - As Torontonians celebrate the holidays with families and loved ones, amidst delicious food, good company and presents, sometimes it is easy to forget about some of the risks that come with the holidays. Toronto Central Community Care Access Centre helps care for people in their home when they come out of hospital or with chronic medical issues. Dedicated to safety and optimal health at home, the organization has "10 Top Tips" to keep the holidays safe:

10) Holiday decorations make your home beautiful but can also make it hazardous for little hands or those with unstable balance or eye sight. Tinsel can be a choking hazard as can small objects and ornaments. Watch for garland or items on handrails as ascending and descending stairs present an increased fall risk.

9) Poinsettia leaves are a choking hazard for children so keep them up high. They aren't toxic unless consumed in a large quantities, but their pretty red colour can make them look delicious to snack on.

8) With more people in your home and often house guests, it is easy to forget to keep medications out of reach of children.  Keep them out of sight and off countertops.

7) Fireplaces evoke a great sense of holiday spirit - but please don't leave them unattended

6) With snow expected, watch for over-exertion and wear protective gear: some activities such as snow shoveling, walking through heavy snow. can be too much. Know the warning signs of heart attached and don't tackle projects too aggressively.

5) Please don't drink and drive!

4) Minimize trip hazards in your home such as scatter mats or wet front entry ways. A fall for a senior can be very dangerous and no one wants a hospital visit over the holidays.

3) Shovel snow promptly so it doesn't harden or accumulate too quickly.

2) Avoid food poisoning and don't leave dairy or seafood out too long.  Serve small quantities and replenish your cocktail platters frequently.

1) With many people in and out of your home, large public gatherings or other opportunities for meeting with people, your risk for catching the cold or flu are increased. The best way to prevent the spread of these: wash your hands, and please stay home if you are ill.

Toronto Central Community Care Access Centre is open 365 days a year and the call centre at 416-506-9888 is open to assist Torontonians to connect with local medical and community based programs.

SOURCE: Toronto Central Community Care Access Centre

Media Contact:
Julia Oosterman
647-409-3284