We don’t normally allow electrical cables or glass decorations to be within reach of small children, and for good reason. Therefore, the jolly Christmas tree needs to be considered similarly.
So, how can you childproof the tree without ruining everyone’s festive fun?
Hidden hazards
Colourful baubles, twinkly lights and and tinsel are tempting for kids to touch, grab and even put in their mouths. This brings up the opportunity of a number of dangers:
- choking
- strangulation
- electric shock
- cuts
- swallowing foreign objects.
Here’s how to prevent accidents at home during the festive period:
Place your tree on a higher surface
Try putting the tree on a small table or higher surface that is out of reach of crawling or walking little ones.
Hide dangling cords
Ensure that electric cables for lights or light-up decorations are concealed safely or tucked out of reach of children.
Beware of low-hanging decorations
Ensure that glass decorations, baubles and anything that could cause injury or be placed in a child’s mouth are out of their reach.
Place a safety gate around the tree
To enjoy the tree and peace of mind at once, put your tree in a spot that can be safely sealed off with a child gate.
Ensure your tree can’t be pulled over
Children can be injured if they hold on to the tree- it could be pulled over.
Beware shedding needles from real trees
Needles dropping from real trees can end up on the floor, in reach of crawling babies and small children, who may want to put them in their mouths.
Choose plastic ornaments over glass
Shatterproof ornaments are far safer around children than glass. If a glass ornament falls to the floor, the tiny pieces of glass can be hard to clear up and be dangerous for little ones. Choose safer shatterproof options instead.
When the baubles are tempting
Kids can be desperate to hold or look at the colourful baubles, which can be difficult when they’re not child-friendly toys. Instead, consider making paper decorations with the kids, which might divert their attention and encourage them to ignore the hazardous ones.
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