
While it’s widely regarded by many as the happiest time of the year, filled with family and friends, gatherings and celebrations, the holidays can also be one of the most treacherous times of the year. A number of ‘end-of-the-year’ occasions make up the holidays, but generally speaking, we’re talking about all holidays between Thanksgiving and New Year’s. That awesome time at the end of each year when we unwind, relax … and visit the local ER. Healthcare and the holidays are an unfortunate pairing that inevitably revisits us each year.
Holiday Accidents & Illnesses
According to a Business Insider article from November 2017, “more than 36,000 people visited US emergency rooms on Thanksgiving day 2016” and “doctors in New York City estimate that their ER visits spike 5-12% during the holidays”, with some estimates higher at 10-12%.
The National Safety Council lists food poisoning, cooking fires, decorating injuries such as falling from ladders or getting stabbed with a metal hook, and drunk driving as some of the most prevalent holiday mishaps that land people in the emergency room during the holidays. While we love the decorations and gatherings of the holidays, taking appropriate precautions can have a huge impact on a safe celebration.
Tips for a safe holiday season
- Know your guest list and prepare food accordingly, or prepare options if guests have food allergies
- Keep medal hooks and breakable ornaments away from children
- Make sure any fires or candles are placed in well-ventilated areas and fireplaces are properly enclosed
- Make sure turkey fryers are away from structures and have the appropriate grease levels
- Have a designated driver – ALWAYS