Christmas should be a season of joy, but for over 80,000 Britons each year, it ends with a trip to hospital due to festive accidents. From tumbles and cuts to serious burns and food poisoning, the pursuit of the perfect holiday creates a wave of 'festive fear' and injuries, according to new research.
The Stress Behind the Season
A study by the National Accident Helpline (NAH) reveals that striving for Christmas perfection is a major source of stress, which in turn leads to mishaps. Their survey of 2,000 people found that 27% experience heightened stress during the festive period.
Women are disproportionately affected, with a significant 32% reporting elevated anxiety. The pressure of culinary and entertaining duties is a primary cause, with more than 13% of women feeling overwhelmed while preparing the Christmas feast, compared to far fewer men.
A disorganised home adds pressure for 18% of individuals, and the seasonal chaos leads to rushing: one in five women and one in ten men admit they hurry through tasks, increasing the risk of accidents.
Top Festive Hazards and How to Avoid Them
Despite the alarming statistic of 80,000 hospitalisations, many treat these risks too casually. Vigilance is crucial, particularly regarding electrical and fire safety.
Electrical and Fire Risks
The NAH reports that more than one in 40 people (2.7%) have suffered electric shocks from faulty Christmas lights. A staggering 600,000 have burnt themselves roasting chestnuts over open flames.
Always inspect fairy lights and electrical decorations before use, discarding any with worn cables or faulty fittings. Only use outdoor-rated lights outside, keeping plugs and transformers indoors. Crucially, switch off all lights and decorations at night and when leaving the house.
Never leave candles unattended; blow them out before bed. Place tea lights in proper holders to prevent fire risks. Remember, electricity and water are a deadly mix, so always unplug lights before watering your Christmas tree.
Slips, Trips and Falls
Decorating is a major culprit for injuries. The NAH found that 2.6 million people have fallen from a stool while putting up decorations. Data from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) supports this, indicating around 1,000 people are injured by their Christmas tree each year, often while decorating high branches.
Use a proper stepladder, not chairs or stools. When fetching items from the attic, have someone help pass boxes down. Keep floors tidy during present unwrapping; promptly dispose of wrapping paper and clutter to prevent slips, especially for elderly relatives.
Food and Drink Safety
Food poisoning can ruin the festivities and is often caused by improperly defrosted or undercooked turkey. Check defrosting and cooking times well in advance and resist taking food out early due to time pressure.
Cover and chill perishables within an hour. Remember, a full oven cooks food slower, so add extra time to your schedule. While help is welcome, keep guests away from hot ovens and sharp knives.
Monitor alcohol intake by alternating with soft drinks or taking a day off if you've overindulged.
Protecting Children
Children are especially vulnerable amid the excitement. Be wary of choking hazards from decorations and cracker toys, which aren't held to the same strict standards as children's toys. Keep small items out of reach.
Festive plants like holly and mistletoe are toxic. Just 20 holly berries could be fatal for a child, so keep them well away. Designate an adult to supervise children and consider using stair gates.
Winter Weather and Driving
With icy conditions, heed weather warnings and reschedule plans to avoid dangerous travel. Keep pathways clear using rock salt, not boiling water which refreezes. Wear shoes with good grip, changing into party shoes later.
If sledging, avoid steep terrain or paths towards trees. When driving, avoid rush hours and check traffic updates via Google Maps or the Highways Agency. Allow at least an hour per alcohol unit before driving.
Christmas Shopping Safely
Carrying heavy gifts can strain your back. Use a rucksack to distribute weight evenly and take breaks to unload bags. In crowded centres, keep children close and give them a note with your contact details.
If in-person shopping is overwhelming, opt for online alternatives. Remember, the perfect present is less important than a safe and happy holiday for all.
