December 22, 2025
Media Contact: Tara Rose, Tara.Rose@vdh.virginia.gov
Crater Health District Urges Families to Prioritize Child Safety During the Holiday Season
PETERSBURG, Va.– Nothing ruins a holiday celebration more than a trip to the emergency department. As families gather for parties, travel and gift-giving, the Crater Health Department is reminding parents and caregivers to take extra precautions to keep kids safe and healthy this holiday season.
Injuries from toys, holiday decorating, and cooking, along with seasonal viruses, send children to the emergency room in greater numbers during the holiday season. Travel can also bring risks, such as car accidents.
“As families gather and travel this season, it is important to take a moment to think about safety,” said Crater District Health Director Dr. Alton Hart, Jr. “A few simple precautions can prevent holiday injuries and protect our most vulnerable community members.”
Families are encouraged to take these simple precautions to help keep celebrations safe and healthy.
Toys
- Prevent choking hazards. Keep small toys, button batteries, magnets and small parts away from young children.
- Choose age-appropriate gifts. Follow age labels on toys and avoid items with small pieces for children under 3.
- Make sure toys haven’t been recalled. Check Recalls & Product Safety Warnings.
- Avoid storing toys in chests with heavy lids where children can become trapped inside.
Holiday Decorating
- Avoid falls. Keep children off ladders and step stools.
- Keep breakable decorations, ornaments, lightbulbs and tinsel out of children’s reach.
- Be aware that some holiday plants are toxic to both humans and pets.
Holiday Cooking & Entertaining
- Always supervise children in the kitchen.
- To avoid burns, cook on back burners and turn pot handles inward.
- Keep sharp knives and blades out of reach.
- Store alcohol safely. Keep an eye on drinks during parties and clean up promptly so kids don’t find drinks left behind.
Seasonal Illnesses
- Practice the “The Little Things:”
- Washing hands,
- Covering coughs
- Getting get the flu vaccine.
- Stay home when sick.
- Keep surfaces clean.
Travel
- Make sure to use a car seat or booster seat appropriate for your child’s age
- Dress children in bright colors at airports so they’re easy to find.
- Secure hotel hazards such as balcony doors and windows. Consider packing outlet covers and toilet seat locks.
- Always supervise children around water, including swimming pools.
For more information, contact Crater Health District directly at 804-863-1652 or visit Crater Health District.
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