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Falls while decorating – Many people love to get into the holiday spirit by decorating
their houses. Unfortunately, falls while decorating are one of the most
common holiday accidents every year. In a report by the U.S. Consumer
Product Safety Commission (CPSC), holiday decorating was the main cause
of an estimated 15,000 injuries in emergency rooms throughout the country
during November and December 2012 – with 34 percent of these injuries
involving falls. Holiday decorators fall from ladders, roofs, stairs,
furniture, and porches.
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Fires – According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), U.S.
fire departments responded to approximately 160 home fires that started
with Christmas trees annually from 2015 until 2019. Nearly half of home
Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical distribution (e.g., overloaded
outlets or surge protectors) or faulty lighting equipment, while one-fifth
of these fires are caused by a candle or other heat source too close to
the tree. Other common causes of holiday fires include holiday decorations
and holiday cooking.
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Car accidents – Many people embark on road trips during this time of year. However,
inclement weather conditions, heavy traffic, and driving through unfamiliar
terrain can lead to a crash. Additionally, many holiday gatherings involve
alcohol consumption, which is why there is also an increase in drunk driving
accidents from the end of November until New Year’s Day. Other common
causes of holiday car accidents include distracted driving, fatigued driving,
and stressed driving, which can lead to road rage.
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Back injuries – From hanging up decorations and lugging your family’s gifts
to setting up the Christmas tree and hauling heavy luggage during your
travels, there are many activities that can result in a back injury.
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Electric shock – Not only can overloaded extension cords lead to fires, but it can
also cause electrical injuries. Electric shocks can lead to thermal burns
and even cardiac arrest. Additionally, exposed and frayed wires are other
main causes of electrical shock.