Don’t let ho-ho holiday hazards wreck the halls
Houses of worship and ministries welcome overflow crowds. Don’t leave them a lump of coal.
Only a Scrooge would worry about risks during the holidays, right? Actually, no. With more people on site and seasonal weather challenges, it’s in the spirit of the season to make sure guests and members are safe. Here are top tips to keep spirits bright and accidents few.
Keep pipes warm
Bursting pipes can bring the ghost of Christmas “blast” into your building, pouring cold water on holiday celebrations. Keep the holidays high and dry with these proactive steps.
Safeguard the halls from slips, trips and falls
Weather it’s California rains or Idaho ice, puddles of water can catapult even the most nimble of guests into the ER zone. A volunteer with a mop and sign may be the season’s MVP. Outdoors, icy conditions must be managed diligently by shoveling and ice treatment. Parking lot greeters can be on the lookout for anyone in need of assistance. If your parking area is dark, do what you can to light it up. Visibility improves both safety and security.
Don’t handle the candle
Candles are beautiful, but they literally set people’s hair on fire. Candle displays, likewise, can tumble and ignite carpet, curtains and more. Find an alternative with battery-powered candles, LED lights and other creative optics. If candles are non-negotiable, these guidelines can reduce risk.
Security
The more people, the more potential problems can arise. Make sure you’re prepared for medical emergencies. Holidays can also be a trigger for mental health crises. A professional security team on duty at a worship service, holiday musical or food bank, can defuse a crisis and keep the peace.
The Christmas Tree that fell on me
Oh Christmas Tree … please don’t fall over and injure someone. The bigger they are, the harder they fall. Beyond that, make sure trees and other decorations don’t blog exits. All decorations – inside and out – should be securely fastened. In addition, lights are beautiful, but displays should follow safety guidelines so circuits aren’t overloaded and fire risks are minimized.
(Don’t go) Up on the Rooftop …
If your rooftop or areas above-your-head are being decorated with lights, fixtures or banners, use caution and consider hiring a professional crew or individual. Ladders, ice, snow and rooftops are a combination that’s on the naughty list. Even the most well-meaning, enthusiastic volunteers are susceptible to injury.
Does this give you a Blue Christmas?
Some of this information is inconvenient, but a greater hassle is a fire, pipe burst, injury or EMS call you weren’t ready for. A focus on risk management now can keep the focus on the spiritual and celebratory later on.
Here’s wishing you happy and healthy holidays!
