By Andy Dahn
BLOOMINGTON – While the holiday season is a time of celebration and fun, it also presents numerous dangers and possible emergencies.
Patti Thompson with the Illinois Emergency Management Agency said some of our favorite Christmas decorations present some serious safety hazards, especially Christmas trees.
“We hope that they’ve been watering them regularly because they can be a real fire hazard if they get too dried out,” Thompson said. “You also need to make sure that all of the lights on your tree are in good, working order and they don’t have any frayed wires or anything that can help spark a fire.”
Despite a rather mild winter thus far, Thompson said dangers still lurk on the roadways. Having a vehicle preparedness kit in your car at all times and staying near your vehicle in case of an emergency are just some tips Thompson offered to Illinois drivers.
“Unless you know of a place that’s right near or very close to where you are and you know that you’ll be able to get help there, just stay in your car,” said Thompson. “You’ll have better luck staying warm inside your vehicle.”
Thompson also had some suggestions on what to add to your Christmas list or purchase others.
“Safety kits and other items make a great gift to keep your loved ones safe,” Thompson said. “Weather radios or first aid kits are good options. You could also put together a home preparedness kit that has things like a three day supply of bottled water, non-perishable food or a flashlight.”
More safety tips and information can be found at Ready.Illinois.gov.
Andy Dahn can be reached at andy.dahn@cumulus.com.
