Make Safety a Priority this Winter

December 24, 2024

The winter holiday season is a time for family and festivities. So be sure to make the most of it by playing it safe, whether you are preparing a holiday feast, decorating your home, or traveling to see friends and family.

Here are some tips to keep you and your family safe.

Food and Kitchen Safety

• Use separate cutting boards for raw meat and vegetables to avoid cross-contamination.
• Use potholders or oven-safe gloves to handle hot dishes.
• Stand by your pan. If you leave the kitchen, turn the burner off. Keep a pan lid or baking sheet nearby and use it to cover a pan if it catches on fire.

Holiday Decorating Safety

• Inspect strings of holiday lights before hanging them. Throw away lights that have frayed wires. Remember to turn off lights before going to bed or leaving home.
• Use lights marked for outdoor use to decorate outdoor spaces and make sure they’re rated for the weather conditions in your area.

Road Safety

• Know before you go. Check weather and road conditions before you leave so you’re aware of potential delays or hazards
• Prepare your vehicle before you hit the road. Check your vehicle's battery, brakes, tires, and fluid levels. Make sure windshield wipers are in good condition and your headlights are functioning properly for those gloomy winter days.
• “With that increased amount of traffic, there’s just increased potential for a crash to take place,” said Saxon Daugherty, Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s safety press officer. “So, when people are out there, they just need to be vigilant. Again, make sure that they’re slowing down and giving themselves increased following distance when they’re behind other vehicles and that they’re eliminating those distractions.”

Air Travel Safety

• Keep an eye on the weather conditions at both your departure and arrival airports.
• Make sure to pack any essential items in your carry-on bag (medications, important documents or snacks). Not sure if something is allowed in carry-on luggage? Search the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) ‘What Can I Bring?’ list or contact TSA directly for help.