Families with twins, triplets or other multiples must be extra cautious to carefully childproof their homes
However, the holiday season brings hidden hazards. Make sure your happy holidays aren't ruined by
accident or injury. Follow these simple guidelines and tips to ensure that your family's holiday foods are safe.
* The holiday season is sure to bring ample opportunity to consume lots of good food. But like other aspects of the season,
there are some hidden hazards that could end up ruining this special time. Don't let your twins or any other family members
become the victim of foodborne illnesses or a choking accident.
* The same rule that is applied to warm summertime weather events is appropriate here: Keep hot foods hot; keep cold foods cold.
After eating, put food away immediately. Use ice packs and heated dishes for buffets where food will sit out.
* Clean up immediately after parties to prevent your twins or triplets from accessing leftover bits of food,
glasses with alcoholic drinks remaining or ashtrays.
* Be wary about candy for children under age three. Hard candies and candy canes present a choking risk.
* Wash hands often, especially before, during and after preparing food.
* As tempting as it may be, keep fingers (big and little!) out of the cookie dough. Raw ingredients can harbor bacteria.
Isn't a warm-from-the-oven cookie worth the wait?
* Homemade eggnog may be a favorite tradition, but be careful. Buy pasteurized product, or make it safely at home by heating
the egg-milk mixture to a temperature of 160 degrees (F) or until it coats the back of the spoon.
* Letting your little ones help with the food preparation can create some of the holiday's fondest memories. Make it a
safe experience by teaching them to wash their hands thoroughly and to keep their fingers (and the food) out of their mouths during
preparation. Keep sharp utensils out of reach. Turn pot handles away from the edge of the stove.
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