The holiday season is a magical, festive time filled with decorations, gifts and fun for people of all ages. However, the very things that brighten the holidays also can pose a threat to children if not used properly. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, approximately 10,000 people are treated in hospital emergency rooms each year as a result of injuries related to holiday decorating. Additionally, there are more than 14,000 candle-related fires each year, resulting in about 170 deaths and $350 million in property damage. Christmas trees also are involved in approximately 200 fires each year, resulting in 10 deaths and $10 million in property loss.

To avoid holiday injuries:

• Decorate with children in mind. Do not put ornaments that have small parts or metal hooks, or that look like food or candy, on the lower branches of a tree where small children can reach them. Trim protruding branches at or below a child’s eye level, and keep lights out of reach.