Pay attention to your health, be safe this holiday season

Give the gift of health and safety to yourself and others by following these holiday tips.

1. Wash hands often with soap and clean running water for at least 20 seconds to keep from spreading germs and getting sick.

2. Bundle up to stay dry and warm. Wear appropriate outdoor clothing: layers of light, warm clothing; mittens; hats; scarves; and waterproof boots.

3. Manage stress. Don’t overcommit, and prevent holiday anxiety and pressure. Get enough sleep.

4. Don’t drink and drive or let others drink and drive. Whenever anyone drives drunk, they put everyone on the road in danger.

5. Be smoke-free. Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke. There is no safe amount of tobacco or secondhand smoke. Breathing even a little secondhand smoke can be dangerous.

6. Fasten seat belts while driving or riding in a motor vehicle. Use a seat belt on every trip, no matter how short the trip. Always buckle children in the car using child safety or booster seats, or seat belts, according to their height, weight and age.

7. Get exams and screenings. Ask what exams you need and when to get them. Update your personal and family history.

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. Dress warmly for outdoor activities. Develop and reinforce rules about acceptable and safe behaviors, including electronic media.

10. Practice fire safety. Most residential fires occur during the winter months, so 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 fruits and vegetables. Limit portion sizes and foods high in fat, salt and sugar. Be active for at least 2,5 hours a week and help kids and teens be active for at least one hour a day.