This holiday season may look a little different, however, don't let that ruin your spirit! By taking precautions, you and your family can still celebrate safely this year.
Home for the Holidays
As the community continues to work through the COVID-19 pandemic, certain traditional holiday events now come with heightened risks of spreading the virus including large gatherings and traveling. To help limit potential exposure of COVID-19, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends celebrating with people only in your immediate household.
Alternative ideas for family gatherings include the use of videoconference, sending old-fashioned letters, sharing photos, and hosting a virtual dinner or holiday game night. Include extended relatives and friends in the gift-giving by leaving presents on their front porch or have them delivered. After they have received them, arrange a fun, virtual unwrapping event.
To learn more about preventing the spread of COVID-19 this year, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays.html.
If you will be out in public, make sure to wear a mask to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Masks should be worn so that they cover your nose, mouth, and chin. Avoid touching your mask while in use and never share masks. Wash reusable masks after every use and only handle your mask by the ear ties/bands. If you must touch your mask, wash your hands before and after.
Holiday Safety Reminders from Cedar Falls Public Safety
Kitchen Safety
Kids love being involved with holiday preparations and it is important to take precautions during this busy time, especially in the kitchen:
- Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.
- Keep children away from the stove. Explain to your children that the stove is hot and also that it will remain hot for a period of time, even after it is turned off. Always keep kids 3 feet away from stoves.
- Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.
- Keep the floor clear so you don't trip over kids, toys, pocketbooks or bags.
- Keep knives out of the reach of children.
- Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
- Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children - up high in a locked cabinet.
- Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle.
- Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.
To help young children enjoy the holiday and avoid potential dangers, have activities that keep them out of the kitchen. Games, puzzles, and books can help provide needed distractions. Additionally, holiday arts and crafts can be a great way for them to be included in the preparations, while staying clear of dangerous appliances. If your child enjoys helping make dinner, provide them with recipes that can be done outside the kitchen and always have an adult help with the task.
Stay Safe on the Roads
Make sure to celebrate safely this holiday season. Speak with all driving-age members of your household about the dangers of drinking and driving.
We wish you and your family a safe and happy holiday!