Chicago, IL – As holiday decorating, travel, and celebrations ramp up this week, safety officials across Illinois are urging residents in the Chicago area to take extra precautions to avoid common winter accidents that historically spike during the holiday season.
According to fire departments, hospitals, and law enforcement agencies, several preventable incidents tend to increase between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, particularly in large metro areas like Chicago where population density and holiday activity are highest.
Ladder Falls While Decorating
Emergency rooms across the Chicago metro regularly report an uptick in injuries linked to ladder falls during holiday decorating. Officials warn residents to use stable ladders, avoid overreaching, and never decorate rooftops or gutters alone. Cold temperatures and icy surfaces significantly increase fall risks this time of year.
Christmas Tree and Candle Fire Risks
Fire officials in Chicago and surrounding suburbs continue to warn about house fires caused by dry Christmas trees, unattended candles, and overloaded outlets. Residents are advised to water live trees daily, keep them away from heat sources, and turn off decorative lights before leaving home or going to bed.
Electrical Decorating Hazards
Faulty extension cords and improper use of indoor lights outdoors remain a leading cause of seasonal fires. Authorities recommend using UL-listed lights, avoiding damaged cords, and never connecting multiple extension cords together.
DUI Enforcement Ramp-Ups
Illinois State Police and Chicago-area departments typically increase DUI patrols and sobriety checkpoints during the holiday season. Officials stress that impaired driving remains one of the deadliest risks this time of year and urge residents to plan ahead for safe transportation.
Safety officials remind residents that most holiday-related accidents are preventable with simple precautions, awareness, and planning.
