10 Way to Stay Safe this Holiday Season

Decorations such as trees and lights can increase the risk of harm. The following steps help keep you and your home safe while decorating:

  1. Make sure holiday light cords are not broken, frayed, and that there are no more than three per extension cord.
  2. Look for a fire-resistant label when buying an artificial tree. Keep it away from heat sources such as fireplaces and radiators.
  3. If you have a live tree, keep it fresh by watering as needed. Bend the needles to let go of any loose needles.
  4. Check labels on older decorations. Avoid breathing in artificial snow. Some older tinsel is lead-based. If decorating with angel hair, use gloves to avoid irritation.
  5. Ensure any decorations outside are meant to be outdoors and lights are tightly fastened to your tree or home. To avoid a fire hazard or electrocution, nails and hooks should be insulated.
  6. Don’t use electric lights on a metallic tree.
  7. Remember to turn off holiday lights before going to bed or leaving your home.
  8. Keep children, pets, and decorations away from flames.
  9. If stockings are hanging on the fireplace mantel, don’t light the fireplace.
  10. Be extra careful using a ladder. Use it on stable ground and wear shoes with good traction. Or ask someone to help you with things that require a ladder.

Source: American Red Cross

Foodborne Illness

Did you know that adults aged 65 and older are more likely to be hospitalized or die from foodborne illness?

If you are 65 or older, or prepare food for someone who is, always follow these 4 steps:

  • Clean: Wash hands, utensils and surfaces often. Germs can spread and survive in many places.
  • Separate: Raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs can spread germs to ready-to-eat foods, so keep them separate.
  • Cook: Food is safely cooked only when the internal temperature is high enough to kill germs that can make you sick.
  • Chill: Refrigerate perishable food within 2 hours. If food is exposed to temperatures above 90°F (32°C) (like a hot car or picnic), refrigerate it within 1 hour.

Source: foodsafety.gov

 

Thumbprint Cookies

Yields: 35 serving(s)

Prep Time: 5 mins

Total Time: 40 mins

Calories 80 – Fat 5g – Saturated fat 3g – Trans fat 0g – Cholesterol 17mg – Sodium 41mg – Carbohydrates 9g – Fiber 0g – Sugar 3g – Protein 1g – Vitamin D 0mcg – Calcium 9mg – Iron 0mg – Potassium 14mg

Ingredients

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp. baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
  • 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup assorted jams, for filling cookies

Directions:

  • Step 1: Preheat oven to 350º and line two baking sheets with parchment. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • Step 2: In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Beat in egg and vanilla, then add dry ingredients in two batches until incorporated.
  • Step 3: Using a small cookie scoop, scoop 1” balls onto prepared baking sheets. Press a thumbprint into center of each ball, 1/2” deep. Fill with a small spoonful of jam.
  • Step 4: Bake until edges of cookies are golden, 13 to 14 minutes. Cool on baking sheets before serving.

 

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder & How to Manage It?

Source: benrose.org

SAD is a type of depression that typically emerges during the fall and winter months when daylight hours are at their briefest. It’s thought to be triggered by changes in the body’s internal clock, known as circadian rhythm, as well as reduced sunlight exposure, which can disrupt serotonin levels and the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep and mood.

Common symptoms include:

  • Persistent sadness or low mood
  • Fatigue and lack of energy
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Changes in appetite or weight
  • Oversleeping or trouble falling and staying asleep
  • Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities

How to manage it:

  • Maximize Exposure to Natural Light
  • Use a Light Therapy Box
  • Stay Physically Active
  • Maintain a Consistent Routine
  • Prioritize Social Connections
  • Consider Professional Help
  • Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques