During the holiday season, many places become busier with the hustle and bustle of people, including local emergency departments.
Although patient volumes typically peak in December across Vancouver Coastal Health, many of those visits are preventable.
The following are 12 seasonal safety tips from Vancouver Coastal health: Ensure your prescriptions will last through to the New Year. If not, visit your doctor and get refills before many medical offices close for the holidays. Find out where your closest walk-in clinic is and its holiday hours in case your doctor is away. Know the difference between flu, the common cold and norovirus, and what you should do in each case. Get your flu shot, wash your hands often and cough and sneeze into your elbow to avoid sharing germs. Double check that your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are in full working order. Keep salt and a snow shovel handy in case the white stuff falls. If you're elderly or have medical issues, leave snow removal to professionals or neighbours willing to help.
Don't drink and drive. The consequences can be serious and fatal, so grab a cab home or arrange for a designated driver before you head out. To prevent falls this winter: slow down, wear shoes with traction, and give a helping hand to anyone who needs help navigating a slippery sidewalk or parking lot. If you're hosting a party, ensure the food you serve to your guests has been properly prepared, cooked and stored to avoid food poisoning.
Take your time opening gifts and packages. Carelessly using sharp tools can lead to serious cuts and gashes. Keep an eye out for elderly neighbours and family, ensuring their home is warm and that they have adequate food and medications over the holiday season. Be sure to check in on them regularly.
