With Christmas on our doorsteps, the festive celebrations will be happening thick and fast from office parties, gatherings with family and friends, and even the big day itself. It's important to unwind and have fun over the Christmas period, but it's also vital to keep safe and prepared in case of an emergency.
We look at the importance of knowing or learning First Aid and some simple methods to keep you safe this Christmas, from decorating and cooking to drinking and dancing.
Why is First Aid Important?
From minor injuries like cuts and bruises to medical emergencies such as cardiac arrest, you could find yourself in the midst of an incident at any time when around others, and if you're able to administer first aid at the right time, not only could you treat minor injuries but also potentially save a life.
Some occupations are inherently more dangerous than others, and the level of danger in your job will determine what level of First Aid you should be familiar with or learn. Due to the continuous risks involved and the number of injuries that occur each year, occupations on construction sites or involving various types of machinery should most certainly have first aid trained workers. However, first aid is not only for physical jobs; jobs in shops or offices should invest in first aid training to confidently attend to customers, colleagues, employees, or anyone who requires immediate assistance, and during the Christmas season, with celebrations such as work parties where alcohol is consumed, and even activities as simple as decorating the office, having the knowledge and skill to perform first aid could be beneficial when you least expect it.
Deck the Halls With Health & Safety
Without the decorations, Christmas wouldn't be Christmas! There's a decoration for practically anything, from Christmas trees to outside lights. However, if you are not well prepared or do not apply decorations safely, making the building, workplace, or residence look festive might come at a cost.
According to the National Accident Helpline, attempting to place decorations on the higher end of Christmas trees injures over 1,000 people each year, and tree lights injure approximately 350 people each year. Simple precautions such as inspecting cables for fraying or breakage, unplugging lights before watering the tree, and having a ladder and someone to watch you when you reach the top of the tree are all simple ways to limit risk and avoid any unwanted shocks or accidents.
‘Tis the Season to Cook Safely
No matter when or where cooking is taking place, it always carries risks. National Accident Helpline reported that 49% of people who have prepared or are preparing Christmas food have suffered an accident. From boiling water to piping hot pans and sharp knives, extra precaution should always be taken when cooking, especially involving dinners as large as traditional Christmas dinners whether you’re cooking for a few people or many. To minimise risk, ensure that everyone is out of the kitchen other than those who should be there such as the cook(s). If the floors have recently been cleaned, check for any lingering puddles or damp spots that have not been dried or marked with wet floor signs. Boiling water, hot fats and oils, knives and other sharp utensils are frequently present when preparing Christmas dinners, so any slipping or tripping hazards in the kitchen could be extremely dangerous, resulting in major burns, cuts, broken bones, etc. Ensure that any hazards are dealt with swiftly and safely, or that they are reported to an appropriate staff member to clear or repair any possible risk.
Enjoy a Tipple… not a Topple!
Christmas is a chance for many to enjoy spending time with friends and family, as well as attending festive events and gatherings. Celebrations, particularly around Christmas, are frequently associated with increased food and drink consumption. Most people enjoy a drink now and then, but it's crucial not to overdo it, and even if more than the suggested quantity is consumed, it's critical to avoid making rash decisions and judgements in order to remain safe at all times.
It's easy to lose track of how many drinks you've had when drinking with colleagues, friends, and family, so if you do intend on drinking more than the recommended amount, make sure to alternate your drinks with soft drinks like water and make sure you've eaten a substantial amount beforehand because drinking on an empty stomach allows alcohol to be absorbed more easily by your body. If you've had too much alcohol and someone needs rapid first aid, there's a good possibility you won't be able to help due to the swift effects alcohol can have on your body, such as lowered inhibitions, possible dizziness, nausea, loss of balance, slurred speech, and more.
Even if you're only intending on having one drink, don't drive. You are not only breaking the law and putting yourself in danger when you drink and drive, but you are also endangering the lives of your passengers and everyone around you. Enjoy your Christmas festivities risk free by planning your trips there and back ahead of time by booking a taxi or securing a lift from someone you know.