Helpful hints: Keeping safe through the holidays Published Oct. 30, 2007 By Staff Sgt. Steve Lewis 512th Airlift Wing Public Affairs DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. -- The 101 Critical Days of Summer has long passed. Now in the middle of the fall season, traveling to the beach, grilling and swimming in the pool have been replaced with holiday cooking, driving long distances to be with family and shopping for gifts. Although safety was important during the summer, the same amount of care needs to be taken as fall quickly turns into winter. Here's a few of safety tips that should be on everyone's holiday season to-do lists this year. Behind the wheel Driving cautiously and planning routes ahead of time should be a primary consideration among other holiday safety practices, said Master Sgt. Kevin Casquarelli, 512th Airlift Wing ground safety manager. He added, driving safely during this time should be made a priority. "Driving long distances during inclement weather and seatbelt use should be two of your biggest concerns," he said. According to the National Safety Council, besides unintentional mishaps behind the wheel, more than half of all traffic related fatalities in the United States are due to alcohol. After drinking at a holiday party that's either work related or with friends, ask a designated driver for a ride home. Heating and fireplaces Evergreens and wreaths shouldn't be placed in fireplaces or woodstoves as a means of disposal. Pine needles tend to be dry due to lack of hydration and can burn out of control when put in contact with flames. Heating homes can get expensive as electric bills and the price of oil or gas rises during this time of the year. "People tend to find different ways to heat their houses to save money now that it's colder outside," said Sergeant Casquarelli, "So, don't leave any portable heaters unattended." Decorations The NSC suggests that sprays that produce artificial snow should be used with caution. These sprays can irritate lungs if inhaled. Cotton snow and angel hair are popular items when used to decorate miniature holiday villages and other related items. The NSC says non-flammable cotton is a common and safe substitute. At any rate, never place these items near candles or by an open flame. Food preparation Recently, salmonella has been making headlines as frozen dinners like pot-pies have been linked to over a hundred cases of the disease nationwide. Always cook food completely and follow the suggested directions that may come with store-bought items. When in contact with raw meat, wash hands, utensils and other kitchen items thoroughly, according to the NSC. Purchasing children's toys, gifts Yet another item found in the news recently are numerous recalls on toys that contained high amounts of lead. Pay close attention to these toys even if they've been taken off store shelves since they've been deemed unsafe for children, according to the NSC. Buy toys that may not easily fit in a child's throat, ears, nose or eyes. Holiday related Stress Among working and driving, the holidays can produce just as much stress. Avoid shopping all at once, advises the NSC. Plan ahead and do a little at a time to reduce hurrying from place to place just to get everything done. Numerous studies done by national web advertising agencies have shown holiday shopping online increases each year. To reduce the stress of driving to the store, consider turning to the Internet for gift ideas, advises the NSC. For more holiday safety tips, visit NSC's website at www.nsc.org/facts/holseasn.htm.