Top 10 tips for a safe, healthy and happy holiday season

VANCOUVER, BC - As the festive season approaches, Vancouver Coastal Health wants to help you stay safe and stress free.

Here are our Top 10 dos and don’ts to help keep you healthy, happy and out of the emergency department this holiday season.

1. Don’t drink and drive. Do plan ahead. Pick a designated driver. Take advantage of taxis, transit or seasonal operations such as Operation Red Nose or Keys, Please.
2. Don’t get food poisoning. Do be mindful of how long food sits out at room temperature. Dispose of leftovers after 48 hours. Ensure poultry is thoroughly cooked by using a food thermometer to test for doneness.
3. Don’t waste precious holiday time with the flu. Do get your flu shot. To prevent the spread of the flu virus, wash your hands often or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Cough into your elbow rather than into your hands. Stay home if you are feeling unwell. At Christmas parties and other seasonal gatherings, offer utensils for finger foods to avoid sharing germs.
4. Don’t forget the importance of a strong immune system. Do get enough sleep and maintain a regular bed time. Take your vitamins. Exercise regularly to control weight and reduce stress.
5. Don’t fall victim to the winter blues. Brave the elements and get some fresh air. Try snowshoeing or cross country skiing as a seasonal stress-buster. Speak to a heath care professional if you find yourself feeling unusually down.
6. Don’t hurt yourself. Do wear a helmet while skiing or snowboarding. Use caution when putting up holiday lights as any fall can cause significant injuries.
7. Don’t lose your balance when walking on ice and snow. Do watch for black ice and slippery stairs. Should you find yourself walking on ice, take small shuffling steps to safety. Shovel snow wisely. Take breaks. Use a walker or cane and hip protectors if unsteady on your feet.
8. Don’t run out of your regular medication. Do make sure you have enough medication to get you through the holidays. Be mindful that doctors’ offices, clinics and pharmacies may have limited holiday hours.
9. Don’t forget fire safety. Do turn off holiday lights when sleeping or away from home. Beware of fire hazards such as wood-burning stoves, holiday decorations, fireplaces and space heaters. Test your fire and carbon monoxide detectors.
10. Don’t forget to have fun this holiday season. Do enjoy the holiday season.

And, don’t forget, Emergency Departments at all VCH are open throughout the holidays for people who require urgent and emergency health care.

Please ensure you have your provincial Care Card with you when you arrive.

VCH is responsible for the delivery of $2.9 billion in community, hospital and residential care to more than one million people in communities including Richmond, Vancouver, the North Shore, Sunshine Coast, Sea to Sky corridor, Powell River, Bella Bella and Bella Coola.

CONTACT:

Trudi Beutel, Public Affairs Officer
Vancouver Coastal Health
Tel: 604-708-5282  Cell: 604-812-1847