Item: Flaxman Law Group
Rating: 5
Author: Clara Barman

The holidays should be a fun and joyous time for children, but unfortunately injuries to children and minors do happen in Weston. The holidays can pose risks for children because it is a busy time and holiday decorations come with their own hazards. Unsafe toys and travel can also create additional risks for injury. There are several things friends and family members can do to keep children safe at this time of year:

Supervise: Supervision is crucial to prevent childhood injury. During a busy holiday event or party, consider having a few adults supervise all the children together. Having multiple eyes on the children at all times helps simplify supervision and keeps everyone safer.
Remove unsafe decorations: Use flameless candles rather than traditional ones and switch traditional lights to cooler LED lights. If you have any decorations with small parts or long strings, hang them high where small children can’t reach. If you have small guests coming to your home, do a walk-through first to make sure every room is child-safe.
Set some rules: If you are visiting a store or someone else’s home with children, create rules about staying safe. In a store, for example, you might ask children to stay near you at all times and designate an area where you will meet if you are separated. If you are in an unfamiliar home, you may ask your child to check in with you every so often.
Have a conversation about DUIs: It’s never too early to have a conversation about drunk driving. Even young children can be told to refuse to get in a car with an adult who has been drinking. Studies show that parents routinely underestimate how underage drinking could impact their children, so even if you’re very sure your children are not at risk, have a conversation. Consider signing a no-drinking-and-driving pledge together and make sure your children know they can call you for a safe ride home at any time.
Check smoke detectors: The holiday season is a busy time for Weston fire fighting departments. Candles, cooking food, and holiday lights can all pose a fire risk. Check your smoke detectors and refresh the batteries if it’s been a while. This is also a good time to invest in a carbon monoxide alarm, if you don’t have one.
Be careful about the tree: If you have a Christmas tree in your Weston home, only hang shatter-free ornaments. Older ornaments made from glass or materials which can easily be torn apart can be dangerous. Water live trees often to prevent them from drying out and to reduce the risk of a fire. Use only LED lights which will not overheat and check the cords on these lights, replacing them if you notice any wear and tear.

If your child is injured during the holidays and the injury was caused by an unsafe product or by someone’s negligence, contact Flaxman Law Group to find out whether you have a legal claim. If you have a legal claim, you may be able to pursue compensation so you can pay for quality medical care. You can reach Flaxman Law Group at 1-866-352-9626 (1-866-FLAXMAN) for a free accident consultation with a Weston childhood injuries claims attorney to discuss your legal options.