Friday, November 14, 2025

Holiday Hustle: Keep Your Home Safe This Season

 The holidays are here — a season filled with cooking, decorating, and gathering with loved ones. But between the baking sheets and the gift wrap, it’s easy to forget a few key safety steps that keep your home and family healthy. 

The 4 C's of Food Safety Whether you’re preparing your first feast or your fiftieth, the secret to a successful holiday meal is food safety. Remember the 4 C's: 

Clean: Wash hands, utensils, and surfaces often. 

Cook: Use a food thermometer to ensure meat reaches safe internal temperatures. 

Clear: Keep raw meats separate from ready-to-eat foods to prevent cross-contamination. 

Call: When in doubt about food safety or any possible poisoning, call the poison center at 1- 800-222-1222. 

Each step matters — they work together to help you enjoy your meal safely and confidently. For more details, check out our full food safety guide. 


Cleaning Safely for the Holidays 


A sparkling home sets the tone for celebration. Whether you’re wiping, scrubbing, or disinfecting, knowing what products to use — and how — makes all the difference. 

  • Soap and water are great for everyday cleaning. 

  • Sanitizing reduces germs to a safe level. 

  • Disinfecting kills most viruses and bacteria on surfaces. 

Not sure what your home needs? Visit our holiday cleaning guide for easy step-by-step advice. 

Create a Safe and Welcoming Home 

Before guests arrive, take a few minutes to do a quick safety walk-through of your home: 

  • Store cleaning and bathroom products up high and out of reach of children and pets. 

  • Keep garage chemicals clearly labeled and securely closed. 

  • Put alcoholic beverages away when not in use — never leave them where children or pets can reach. 

  • Remember: even festive touches like poinsettias and mistletoe can be toxic if ingested. Learn more about these and other seasonal hazards on our Toxic Topics page. 


  • When the Unexpected Happens 

  • Accidents can happen — even during the happiest times of the year. If you suspect poisoning or have a question about a product, help is always available. 

    Call the poison center anytime at 1-800-222-1222 — free, confidential, and open 24/7. 

    Stay safe, celebrate smart, and enjoy every moment of your holiday season! 

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