The holidays are upon us, and we want everyone to have a healthy, happy holiday season. Whether you’re travelling to visit faraway loved ones or preparing a family feast, use the tips below to help keep your holidays safe.

 Drive safely

• Prepare your vehicle for winter.
• Remove distractions – drowsiness, cell phones.
• Leave early, plan ahead.
• Buckle up everyone in the vehicle.
• Designate a sober driver.

Decorate safely

• Choose the correct ladder for the task.
• Replace light sets that are broken, frayed, cracked or have loose connections.
• Turn off lights and decorations when you go to bed or leave the house.
• Place your tree at least 3 feet away from fireplaces, radiators and other heat sources.
• Keep away from children and pets potentially poisonous plants – mistletoe, holly berries, Amaryllis.

Fire-starters

• Do not burn trees, wreaths or wrapping paper in the fireplace.
• Check and clean the chimney and fireplace once a year.
• Be alert to the dangers of using a turkey fryer.
• Use flameless, rather than lighted, candles.
• Use a screen on the fireplace at all times.

Food poisoning is no joke

• Wash hands frequently when handling food.
• Keep raw meat away from fresh produce.
• Use separate cutting boards, plates and utensils for uncooked and cooked meats.
• Refrigerate hot or cold leftover food within two hours of being served.
• Thanksgiving leftovers are safe for three to four days when properly refrigerated.