12 health and safety tips for the holidays - WLOX.com - The News for South Mississippi

From CDC.gov

Give the gift of health and safety to yourself and others by following these holiday tips. You can sing along in The 12 Ways to Health Holiday Song, listen in a holiday health podcast, and send the song to your friends and family in a holiday health-e-card!

1. Wash hands often to keep yourself from spreading germs and getting sick.
2. Bundle up to stay dry and warm.
3. Manage stress. Don't over-commit yourself and prevent holiday anxiety and pressure. 
4. Don't drink and drive or let others drink and drive.
5. Be smoke-free. Avoid smoking and second-hand smoke.
6. Fasten seat belts while driving or riding in a motor vehicle. Always buckle your child in the car using a child safety seat, booster seat, or seat belt according to his/her height, weight, and age.
7. Get exams and screenings. Ask what exams you need and when to get them.
8. Get your vaccinations, which help prevent diseases and save lives.
9. Monitor the children. Keep potentially dangerous toys, food, drinks, household items, and other objects out of kids' reach. Make sure toys are used properly.
10. Practice fire safety. Most residential fires occur during the winter months, so be careful to never leave fireplaces, space heaters, stoves, or candles unattended. Have an emergency plan and practice it regularly.
11. Prepare food safely. Remember these simple steps: wash hands and surfaces often, avoid cross-contamination, cook foods to proper temperatures, and refrigerate promptly.
12. Eat healthy, and get moving. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Limit your portion sizes and foods high in fat and sugar. Be active for at least 2½ hours a week and help kids and teens be active for at least 1 hour a day.