Baltimore, MD – As holiday decorating ramps up across Maryland, state police are urging residents to take extra precautions after warning that falls remain the leading cause of trauma-related emergency calls during the holidays.
According to the Maryland State Police Aviation Command, falls—often involving ladders—account for a significant share of serious injuries reported each year during seasonal decorating. The agency shared the reminder this week while showcasing its own holiday-decorated helicopter, emphasizing that safety should come first whether decorating homes, businesses, or public spaces.
Police say ladder-related falls frequently result in head injuries, broken bones, and internal trauma, sometimes requiring air transport to trauma centers across the state. These calls often increase between late November and early January, particularly following weekends when residents put up lights, wreaths, and other decorations.
Safety officials recommend using stable ladders placed on level ground, avoiding overreaching, and having another adult nearby to assist. They also caution against decorating in poor weather conditions, such as rain, ice, or high winds, which can significantly increase the risk of falls.
The reminder applies statewide, including densely populated areas such as Baltimore City, Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, and surrounding suburbs near Washington, D.C., where emergency crews frequently respond to preventable holiday injuries.
Maryland State Police say many of these incidents are avoidable with basic precautions and planning. Officials stress that taking a few extra minutes to secure ladders and ask for help can prevent serious injuries and reduce strain on emergency responders during an already busy season.
Residents are encouraged to prioritize safety and seek professional help for hard-to-reach or complex decorating projects.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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