BY FIRE CHIEF SAM DIGIOVANNA
“Searching for a hidden Easter basket is an activity that children of all ages enjoys, however, there can be a few problems if parents are not careful,” says Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna.
Candy & Toy Safety:
- In order to prevent choking, avoid hard, round candy; thick or sticky candy; or candy with nuts. Caramel, sour balls and jaw breakers can be dangerous because children’s airways are higher and narrower than an adult’s, creating a choking hazard.
- Fake grass is not digestible, so keep it away from little children.
- Be sure that Easter toys and dolls (such as bunnies, chicks etc) are free of choking hazards. Pieces that can be removed from a doll or toy pose a potential choking danger to small children.
Egg Safety:
- Eggs are a potentially hazardous food, in the same category as meat, poultry, fish, and milk. In other words, they are capable of supporting the rapid growth of disease-causing bacteria like Salmonella. Before boiling eggs for Easter decorating/painting, they must be kept refrigerated.
- Use only clean, unbroken eggs – check when you purchase. Discard dirty or broken eggs. Cool your eggs in cold water or just in the air. Be careful of hot water/scald accidents
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Egg Hunting:
- Do not hide eggs in cupboards or drawers with dangerous products.
- Do not hide eggs in, on or under glass.
- Do not hide eggs in pre-existing holes in the ground or trees.
- Do not hide eggs in any plant that have thorns or sharp stiff leaves, look potentially dangerous or poisonous. (Rule of thumb: If you don’t know the name of the plant, don’t put an egg in it!)
- Do not hide eggs in any animal’s home, food bowl or play area.
- Do not hide eggs where pesticides or poisons have recently been sprayed.
After hunting – Eggs that show cracks or damage, throw them away.
Driving:
- Many of us will be traveling to family and friends homes. Buckle up, plan your route and drive safely as we share the road with others. Remember, “Patience is a virtue desired by many possessed by few.”
If you keep these few simple tips in mind, you should be able to enjoy a fun, problem-free Easter celebration says Chief DiGiovanna.
Have a Happy Easter!
Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna
