Give the Gift of SAFETY this Holiday Season
As we reflect during this season of thanksgiving, I am sure we can all agree the greatest, most precious gift of all is that of life. Just like a shiny new toy or treasured object, life requires proper care and attention. An important part of honoring this gift is prioritizing our safety and health. They’re essential to keeping us going, like maintaining a fully charged battery. Sadly, this does not always get the full attention it deserves. This holiday season, let’s make safety and health a priority, ensuring we protect the gift of life every day.
Select Age-Appropriate Gifts
Whether big or small, toys are always a favorite among many children; however, placing extra thought into toy safety should always be a priority during purchase. Here are some important safety tips:
Always read the directions for a toy together as a family so everyone is on the same page and knows the necessary precautions.
Remember, even age-appropriate toys, such as sewing, baking and science kits, or sensory toys, often require adult supervision.
Teach older children to role model safe toy behavior by always keeping tiny toys out of reach for younger children.
Use extreme caution with toys containing magnets, button batteries, balloons, or toys with small parts.
Be aware of your surroundings when playing with toys that fly so you do not injure an unsuspecting person or destroy another’s property while at play.
Don’t Forget the PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
If a child in your life has been working hard to master riding a bicycle without training wheels, they may be eyeing up a new bicycle as a gift. Before the upgrade is made, ensure their helmet is upgraded as well. Also, great add-ons include reflectors for riding in the evening or a water bottle to stay hydrated on hot summer days. If a kayak, canoe, or another boat is on the list, a lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD) should accompany it.
After asking for a few years, you might be ready to honor a child’s request for an ATV (all-terrain vehicle) or UTV (utility terrain vehicle). The child may have proved they are responsible, and this equipment will help with his various chores around the farm or ranch. Keep in mind, this is not a gift a child should grow into, but rather be the appropriate size for the rider’s age. Before you hand over the keys, enroll them in a safety training program so they can start with a safety focus and learn what to do. Make sure the gift also includes essential PPE like a DOT-approved, properly fitted helmet, over-the-ankle boots, eye protection, and protective clothing.
When giving a gift to a family this holiday season, consider practicality. Items like smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, or first aid kits can be scarce in a family’s home or on the farm. Families often neglect to purchase these items on their own due to expense or failure to realize the importance. While you never want the opportunity to arise where you need to use them, failing to have them in an emergency can be costly. For new or expecting parents, great gifts are out there to help baby-proof the home. If you have a new teen driver in the family, think about an emergency car kit.
Being Present Over Giving Presents
When the world seems to focus on everything being “merry and bright,” the holiday blues can bring a surge of loneliness, stress, and anxiety. These feelings often start around Thanksgiving and last through the new year, triggered by memories of lost loved ones no longer with us or the high expectations that come during this time of year.
Remember, one of the greatest gifts you can give others is spending time together and showing you care. Instead of focusing on the presents, being present and providing a listening ear this holiday season could be the greatest gift you can give someone. While this gift is priceless, it may not cost you a dime, just a little of your time.
Protecting our Future Generation
PAF Safety Day is recognized as the largest rural safety and health education program for children in North America. After participants learn potentially life-saving messages, they return home to share the knowledge they gained with their family and friends. Since its inception in 1995, the program has reached millions of participants and volunteers.
You, too, can join the mission and provide education, training, and resources to make farm, ranch, and rural life safer and healthier for all children and their communities. Visit www.progressiveag.org for more information and click on Get Involved to learn about volunteer opportunities, donating to the cause, or how to bring a PAF Safety Day to your local community.