Holiday decorations can pose risk to young children

Christmas decorations are popping up in houses everywhere, and they can be especially tempting for young children.

Take special care to avoid decorations that are sharp or breakable, keep trimmings with small removable parts out of the reach of children to avoid them from swallowing or inhaling small pieces and avoid trimmings that resemble candy or food that may tempt a young child to eat them.

Also, remove all wrapping papers, bags, paper, ribbons and bows from tree and fireplace areas after gifts are opened. These items can pose suffocation and choking hazards to a small child or can cause a fire if near flame.

And, when visiting friends or relatives, remember to keep an eye out: their homes are likely not child-proofed.

American Academy of Pediatrics