There are two very popular items around this time of year: alcohol and toys. Although they both cater to different age groups (seemingly/ hopefully), they both require circumspection by the user.
ALCOHOL:
-Statistics Canada reports that there are approximately 1,200 impaired driving incidents each -weekend leading to Christmas and New Year’s Eve
- It also reports that 50% of impaired driving accidents happen between 11 p.m. – 4 a.m.
- MADD Canada reports that between 1,250 – 1,500 people are killed by impaired driving each year and over 63,000 are injured
Therefore, we can’t advocate enough the need to have a plan when anticipating drinking this holiday season. Call a cab and make reservations in advance, call an Uber, find a sober driver, or call Operation Red Nose.
Even if you are hosting a party which will serve drinks, you may be responsible for your guests. Therefore, make sure that your guests are matched with proper drivers as well.
TOYS:
When giving presents to children, or if your children are receiving presents (or you are buying toys for yourself—we don’t judge), you should be aware that toys can actually be quite dangerous, and we don’t just mean those annoying-jingly-flashy-bright-light-that-never-go-off-that-make-you-want-to-bang-your-head-toys, but even some pretty common toys as well.
Be especially aware of: toys with small pieces which can be choking hazards; toys with batteries that can malfunction and cause burns; toys which can be broken and can create sharp edges that can cut; toys with strings that can choke.
Obviously, the younger the child, the more hazardous the toy will be, and you will have to use some common sense when purchasing these toys. You can also visit Canada’s Children’s Health & Safety Association website.
The bottom line is this: treat your toys like your alcohol and your alcohol like your toys. That made no sense, and the drinking hasn’t even started yet. But this does: have a safe and happy holiday season.