Avoiding hospital ER tops on all lists

SAN DIEGO, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- An emergency room visit is not on anyone's holiday to-do list, so taking precautions against a range of mishaps should be a priority, U.S. trauma surgeons say.

Physicians and surgeons at the University of California, San Diego, Health Sciences, Division of Trauma, Surgical Critical Care & Burns say it's important to remember that nuts -- a big part of holiday cooking and baking -- might cause allergic reactions. In addition, limit sweets for people with diabetes and remember that small edibles may pose a choking hazard to children.

The trauma surgeons and physicians also recommend:

-- Keep holly berries, poinsettia plants and mistletoe leaves out of the reach of children and pets. If a child does ingests any poisonous plant or substance, contact Poison Control at 1-800-876-4766.

-- Scatter rugs and long table cloths are potential tripping hazards for young and old, while glass figurines and bulbs can shatter and cut little fingers. Use unbreakable decor or place delicate decorations high up.

-- Holiday lights and candles can cause burn injuries. Flameless candles and musical cards may contain small batteries that can be lethal if swallowed.

-- Put coats and bags in a designated closet; visitors' purses and coat pockets often contain medicine, coins and other dangers to children and pets.

-- Lock cabinets where cleaning supplies are stored.

-- If you have children, check for unfenced pools and spas when visiting friends' or relatives' homes.