4 tips for keeping the family safe at home during the holidays

(FOX 2) - This holiday season The Kohl's SAFE 4 Kids Program at The Children's Hospital of Michigan would like you to take a few moments and make sure you are keeping your family safe.  

Renee Zarr joined us on The Nine with a few tips to make sure the holidays in your house are smooth sailing. 

1. Decorate the tree with your kids in mind. 

Kids are curious and will want to play with the ornaments on the tree, so you might as well prepare. Move the ornaments that are breakable or have metal hooks towards the top of the tree. Keep some space at the bottom of the tree with ornaments that are safe for young kids. Use ribbon to hang ornaments instead of hooks. Use shatter resistant ornaments. It's always best to anchor tree to your wall to prevent it from falling over. 

2. Trees and plants

An artificial tree that is "flame resistant" is the BEST choice.  

Water natural trees regularly; needles can dry out and pose a potential fire hazard. Make sure your tree has plenty of water by checking it regularly. 

Double check to make sure any real plants you would like to keep in your home are not dangerous to children or pets. Examples: poinsettias are not poisonous; mistletoes are poisonous. 

3. Check the lights 

Lights are one of the best parts of holiday decorating. Take a look at the ones on your tree and in and around your home for exposed or frayed wires, loose connections or broken sockets. Make sure you are using indoor lights inside the home and outdoor lights for outside.  

4. Keep button batteries away from young kids 

In 2017, over 3,200 button batteries were ingested - and almost 2,000 of those were by children under the age of 6. Keep a special eye on small pieces, including button batteries that may be included in electronic toys. While these kinds of games are great for older kids, they can pose a potential danger for younger, curious siblings. 

Poison Control reports that a button battery can burn through a child's esophagus within two hours.

Only purchase devices that have a screw backing for your child's safety - and thoroughly check our your house.