Children get happy at the sight of candy or when they hear about the holidays!
Who doesn’t love holidays? Holidays are full of fun, frolic, food, family, and festivities. But there can be a downside too like unforeseen hazards. All that excitement and anticipation can disappear in minutes. That’s why it is important to be proactive by learning about common holiday hazards for children and how to avoid them.
We all know that what-did-he-put-in-his-mouth moment or where-did-she- climb-accident. Relax, just a few simple steps can help you save the disaster — and respond sensibly if something does go wrong.
Occasions can be a recipe of holiday hazards
Every year, we celebrate Diwali, Holi, Eid, and Christmas with our little munchkins but these occasions can turn sour if you do not take the extra caution.
The festival of lights
Over the years, we have seen mass initiatives to have a silent Diwali by reducing our usage of firecrackers. However, it is much more than that. It is also the time to light lamps and candles. For those who still want to indulge in bursting crackers, here are the things you should be careful about:
1. Always keep a water bottle close by in case of any burn injuries. It is the best bet against fire.
2. First aid box – The obvious choice in case of any burns or injuries while lighting diyas
3. Open spaces – Firecrackers have toxic chemicals and produce smoke and odour, which can be hazardous for your young ones. That is why you need to choose open spaces for celebrations during Diwali. Lately, we have also seen children developing asthma or breathing problems due to the toxic air during Diwali so make sure your surroundings are well ventilated and your choice does not go too close to the firecrackers.
A Holy Holi experience
March is the season of spring and there’s no better symbol than the colour of Holi. While the festival is the time for fun and games, it comes with its own set of hazards, which can fade away from your mood pretty quickly. Here are some of them:
Skin troubles
People often use red powder (gulal) or colored talc (abir) to decorate their bodies and clothes during festivals. These powders are made of natural ingredients with a coloring agent and a base. The base may have contaminated starch or wheat flour. These powders can cause allergies and irritation with prolonged exposure. For some people, the preferred method is more harmful to their health because synthetic colors are made of oxidized metals or industrial dyes, which may be toxic chemicals. These dry powders can also cause irritation, allergies, and even asthma-like symptoms if inhaled. Certain studies have found that the powders used during Holi can be extremely inflammable. So, be extra cautious when buying your next packet of Holi colours.
Holi is synonymous with colours painted across clothes and the skin of your loved ones. However, you should make sure to use organic and natural colors to avoid any skin allergies and infections for your little ones.
Common side effects of Holi
Irritant dermatitis
After contact with the colour or irritants, a person experiences itching, burning, and redness on the skin. Mica dust in the powders can also cause abrasions on the facial skin.
Contact dermatitis
Due to previous sensitization or prolonged contact with multiple colors on the surface itching, irritation, and skin rash can erupt after a few days of exposure to the color. Often within 7 days of contact, delayed allergies can generate as late as a month.
Ho-Ho should not turn into oh-oh on Christmas!
There’s nothing more festive than the spirit of Christmas. Nothing gets your little ones more excited than to receive gifts from Santa. And how can Christmas happen without a Christmas tree, right? Often, you adorn Christmas trees with small decorative items and ornaments, which can be injurious if ingested. So, watch out for what you hang in those trees. How can we forget the Christmas feast? Make sure your kids eat fresh and well-cooked meats or vegetables so that they do not get food poisoning. Also, ensure they do not go overboard with sweets and chocolates as they are also another cause for tummy troubles. Plenty of foods are breeding grounds for many forms of bacteria like salmonella, Staphylococcus, and E-coli.
All is well when your little one travels well
Travelling can be hectic with the kids. That is why you need to be careful with your travelling regimen when your kids are around.
Planning a road trip with our kids?
The first golden tip would be to ensure they are well fastened. Carry a car seat, or make sure your kids are buckled up with seatbelts and are sitting tight and right. Keep any form of medications or chemicals away from children.
Booking a holiday apartment?
Opt for a kid-friendly home. Make sure there is no staircase. Ensure all electrical plugs are covered when not in usage. Watch out for those sharp edges on the tables or other furniture, which may cause serious injury to kids. Keep your child away from the stove or hot beverages you might prepare like a cup of coffee or tea.
A vacation is supposed to be a time to relax, re-energize, and forget about stress. Make sure it is risk-free with your children on board.