Holiday Décor Poses Potential Danger To Children

TheBump.com will talk about the five most common décor dangers to watch out for and how parents can baby-proof their homes. For example, mistletoe and poinsettias are potentially poisonous for baby. Tree ornaments pose choking hazards. The needles from trees can make cuts in a tot’s mouth and throat!

DECOR DANGER DETAILS AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

1. The Christmas Tree
Problem: Pine tree needles they can cause painful cuts in the mouth and throat of a child.
Solution: Buy a fire resistant fake tree! It's an overall safer option than a natural tree. And if a fake tree is not an option, make sure the live tree you buy is fresh and green. Needles should be hard to pull from branches and shouldn't break. Also, make sure your tree is secured in a sturdy stand so it doesn't tip over or get knocked over.
Important Tip: If your baby is mobile-then make sure you cordon off the Christmas tree area too. Place the tree out of the way of traffic, doorways, exits, and away from heat sources. One way to keep the tree area baby-free is to put a baby play-yard around it. It'll keep all the presents contained too.

2. The Decorations: Tree Ornaments, Light Bulbs, Icicles & TinselProblem: They're all potential choking hazards! If you have glittery, shiny ornaments baby's definitely going to want to grab and play.
Solution: General rule of thumb is if it's small enough to fit in the mouths of babies and toddlers-it's too small to put up. If you must though, keep small ornaments and décor higher up on the tree so baby can't reach them.
Important Tip: Avoid decorations that are sharp, breakable or have small removable parts. Make sure to decorate with flame-resistant or non-combustible materials)

3. The Wrapping
Problem: Wrapping paper, bags, ribbons and bows all pose suffocation and choking hazards.
Solution: After you're done wrapping all those gifts, make sure you store all the paper, bows and scissors away.

4. Potentially Poisonous Plants: Mistletoe, Holly, Poinsettias & Jerusalem Cherry Plants
Poisoning Symptoms: Rashes, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Although poinsettias aren't likely to cause a fatal reaction-it may cause gastric irritation and burning in the mouth.
Important Tip: It's best to keep these plants out of reach of children. You don't have to buy a real plant! There are lots of gorgeous artificial plants that look just like the real thing-and you won't have to worry about poisoning baby.

5. Alcohol and Food Poisoning
Problem: Typical party snacks like peanuts and popcorn are all potential choking hazards and shouldn't be given to children under age four. Spiked holiday punch and eggnog should be kept out of the reach of children.
Solution: Remove all empty and partially empty cups as soon as possible. The best way to prevent alcohol and food poisoning is to keep an eye on your child. If you're busy with guests or with a party, enlist a friend or hire a babysitter to specifically watch the kids.

For the inside scoop on pregnancy in New York and for more baby-proofing tips, pick up a copy of the Bump Magazine or visit thebump.com.