The holiday season is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and warm traditions, but it’s also one of the busiest times of year for emergency rooms across the country. At South Arkansas Regional Hospital (SARH), we see a predictable rise in December ER visits tied to food mishaps, slips and falls, burns in the kitchen, and even stress-related symptoms.
A little preparation can go a long way toward keeping your celebrations safe and joyful. Here are some of the most common holiday hazards and practical tips to help your family avoid a trip to the ER this season.
Food-Related Illness: Festive Feasts Can Carry Hidden Risks
Between large family meals, potlucks, and leftovers that linger, December brings a noticeable increase in foodborne illness.
Typical causes include:
- Undercooked meats, especially turkey and poultry
- Foods left out for more than two hours
- Cross-contamination during meal prep
- Raw cookie dough or batter that contains eggs
Tips to prevent it:
- Use a food thermometer; turkey should reach 165°F in the thickest part.
- Keep raw meats separate from fresh produce.
- Refrigerate leftovers promptly in shallow containers.
- Remind kids (and adults) that raw cookie dough is not a snack, no matter how tempting.
If anyone experiences severe vomiting, dehydration, or symptoms lasting more than 24–48 hours, an ER visit may be warranted.
Falls and Slips: Decorations, Ladders, and Holiday Clutter
From hanging lights to navigating crowded living rooms, falls are one of the most common holiday-season injuries.
Risk factors include:
- Using unstable ladders or climbing on furniture
- Slippery outdoor steps or porches
- Extra decorations and cords creating tripping hazards
- Fatigue during travel or holiday hosting
How to stay safe:
- Always use a sturdy ladder, not a chair, and have someone hold it.
- Clear walkways both indoors and outside.
- Add night lights in hallways for visiting family members.
- Wear shoes with traction when hanging outdoor décor.
Seek emergency care if a fall results in severe pain, swelling, head injury, loss of consciousness, or difficulty walking.
Burns in the Kitchen: When Holiday Cooking Heats Up
December is peak cooking season, and that means more opportunities for burns and scalds.
Common causes we see in the ER:
- Hot oil splatters from frying
- Steam burns from pots or pressure cookers
- Contact burns from oven racks or stovetops
- Hot drinks spilled by children or crowded kitchens
Simple kitchen-safety reminders:
- Keep pot handles turned inward.
- Use oven mitts, not towels, when removing hot items.
- Keep children at least three feet away from the stove.
- Wear fitted sleeves to avoid catching fabric on a burner.
If a burn blisters, covers a large area, or appears deep, professional medical care is essential.
Stress, Anxiety, and Overexertion: The “Hidden” Holiday Hazards
Emotional and physical stress spike in December, sometimes leading to chest pain, headaches, or blood pressure changes that land people in the ER.
Triggers often include:
- Financial pressures
- Family expectations
- Overcommitting to events
- Travel stress
- Grief or loneliness during the holidays
Healthy ways to manage stress:
- Build in rest days; your calendar doesn’t have to be full.
- Delegate tasks and keep meals simple when possible.
- Take short walks or quiet breaks throughout the day.
- Stay hydrated and avoid too much caffeine or alcohol.
Seek emergency care immediately for chest pain, difficulty breathing, sudden dizziness, or symptoms that feel “different” or severe.
When to Visit the ER
SARH’s Emergency Department is here for your family 24/7. While many holiday-related injuries are preventable, we encourage you to seek care right away for:
- Significant burns
- Severe abdominal pain or dehydration
- Head injuries
- Broken bones or inability to bear weight
- Chest pain, fainting, or breathing difficulty
For non-emergencies, your primary care provider or urgent care may also be a helpful resource.
A Safe, Healthy Holiday Season Starts with Simple Precautions
December should be filled with joy, not unexpected medical emergencies. By staying mindful of common risks and taking a few preventive steps, you can help keep your celebrations safe, relaxed, and memorable.
South Arkansas Regional Hospital is always here to support your family’s health, both during the holidays and all year long.