BNSF News

Stay Focused, Stay Safe at Work, on the Road and at Home during the Holidays

2009-12-17

The 2009 holiday season is here, bringing with it joy, stress, distractions - and potential risk.

The wide range of emotions that people experience during the holidays can lead to distractions at work, on the road and at home.

Take extra care to stay focused on the task at hand, whether you are at work or somewhere else.

Read this safety briefing for tips on working safely through the holidays.

Safety on the road

Even traveling to a holiday party a few blocks away can be dangerous. Follow these safe driving tips from the Department of Public Safety and other organizations:

• Allow adequate time for your trip.
• Make sure everyone is buckled up.
• Avoid "drowsy" driving.
• Only drive in the passing lane when you are actually passing someone.
• Use turn signals.
• Do not pull in front of other drivers if you do not have enough time to do so safely.
• Avoid tailgating, flashing lights or honking.
• Use "regular" beams in traffic.
• Have a designated driver if you are at a party and consume alcoholic beverages.
• Recognize that talking on a cell phone while driving can significantly increase your risk. Adhere to local and state laws for cell phone use. Never "text" while operating a moving vehicle.
• Be aware of driving conditions, and take steps to keep yourself and your vehicle safe.

Safety at home

People are more relaxed at home, but they should recognize and prevent potential risks there as well.

Consider these tips as you spend time at home with family and friends:

• Check your first-aid kit before the holidays begin to ensure you are prepared in case of a holiday emergency.
• Manage clutter as best you can. Boxes and gifts can be tripping hazards, so make sure to keep walkways clear throughout the house.
• Check batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and make sure the alarms are working properly.
• Ensure that anyone working in the kitchen or around wood-burning stoves knows how to use a fire extinguisher. And make sure you have a charged fire extinguisher ready to use!
• Make sure toys are age-appropriate for the children who will be in your home this holiday season.
• Clean up after holiday parties to ensure children and toddlers don't find leftover food, alcohol or tobacco products.
• Keep tinsel, ornaments, chocolate, mistletoe and lilies out of the path of dogs and cats.
• Remember to unplug lights on the tree and decorations outside before retiring every evening.

Have a safe and happy holiday season!

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