All of us at Bonner General Hospital wish you the happiest of holidays and, although we’re here for your health, we certainly hope that we won’t be seeing you today.

However, each year almost 9,000 people are treated in emergency rooms on Christmas day for burns, bruises, lacerations and broken bones due to carelessness. Many are treated for stomach disorders. Children are treated for suffocation. And an inordinate number of adults are seen for heart attacks.

How do you stay out of the ER? First of all, add water to that live Christmas tree. It’s probably a little thirsty right now and dead pine needles can cause a fire hazard.

Then check to make sure that there aren’t any candles near the tree or any other decoration that might catch fire.

If anyone in your family has respiratory issues refrain from lighting a wood burning fire.

Fires release airborne toxic particulates that have been associated with an increase in blood pressure and cardiac events.

If you light a fire, be sure the flue is open. Remove any greens, boughs or paper decorations before lighting and don’t leave a fire unattended.

Do not burn wrapping paper in the fireplace. It can cause a flash fire. And be extremely careful with those pretty fire salts as they not only produce colored flame but can also cause extreme gastrointestinal problems if ingested.

Be vigilant with children’s toys. Know at all times what your child is playing with or on. Be sure they aren’t sledding out to the busy street or around trees. And make sure their gloves and shoes are dry while playing outside.

We may all look cute wobbling around on ice skates or skis, but to avoid twists and sprains proper instruction, proper equipment and proper supervision is needed.

Your house may be childproof, but be sure that Grandma’s is as well. Or, for that matter, any home that you visit.

Look for potential choking items like small items or food. Make sure they don’t come in contact with tobacco or alcohol.

When traveling, try to stick as close as possible to your child’s regular schedule. Taking regular naps will relieve stress for both you and the little one.

Use caution with food. Foods that are normally refrigerated should not be sitting out for more than two hours. Make sure all raw fruits and vegetables are washed thoroughly. Wash your hands and prep surfaces frequently.

Check all your medications for food interactions. Some drugs are affected by certain foods. For instance, if you take Coumadin you probably know to be careful with dark leafy vegetables, but did you know to avoid cranberries and herbal teas?

Try to avoid stressful situations. Emotional stress can lead to heart attacks. The pressure of spending time with unpleasant relatives, absorbing the financial pressures of traveling, entertaining, decorating and gift giving may be dangerous.

Stay warm. Dress in layers and be sure to bundle up before going outside. Make sure all the children do as well. Then when indoors peel it off so you don’t get over heated.

Don’t binge eat or drink. Taste it all, but reduce your portions accordingly. Often a great case of indigestion will resemble a heart attack but remember that a heart attack often resembles indigestion.

And, most importantly, get help immediately for any symptoms or injuries. Don’t worry about ruining someone else’s festivities with a trip to the ER. Putting off that visit can result in a multitude of complications. Even a case of whether you’re around for a Merry Christmas next year.

Kathy Hubbard is a trustee on Bonner General Hospital Foundation Board. She can be reached at kathyleehubbard@yahoo.com, 264-4029. Google: Christmas Safety.