Valentine’s Day: 7 Common Mistakes That Can Be Deadly
Imagine… You’ve set up the perfect Valentine’s Day surprise for your significant other: candles and rose petals leading the trail to the bedroom, expensive champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries, fancy dinner reservations, and of course, lots of “love.”
No one prepares to spend Valentine’s Day with their sweetheart in the emergency room, but even this holiday can prove hazardous for some. If you’re planning something special next week or weekend, make sure to avoid making these common Valentine’s Day mistakes to keep you and your loved ones out of the hospital on your special night.
Candle House Fires
Candles can be extremely romantic, but not when they cause a fire. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), nearly 8,700 house fires every year are caused by the improper use of candles—the majority of which start in the bedroom. Candles can easily cause fire when they are placed too close to flammable objects, left unattended for long periods of time, or when placed within reach of children and pets, where they can easily be knocked over. LED flameless candles are an excellent option to avoid accidents, but if you must use candles, keep them away from anything that can catch fire and always remember to blow them out before leaving the room.
Driving After Too Much “Celebrating”
Romantic nights can be extremely joyful with a little wine or champagne. But if you are planning to make some toasts, do not also plan to drive. As with any holiday, the number of drivers under the influence of alcohol on the road increases around Valentine’s Day. To help keep your loved ones safe, consider staying home to celebrate or using a ride-sharing app to get you to and from your romantic plans in one piece.
Food and Candy Allergy Nightmares
Most Valentine’s Day lovers look forward to a few sweet treats. However, you may want to do your research before purchasing goodies this holiday. According to Food Allergy Research and Education (FARE) , over 15 million Americans experience some sort of food allergy, and some can go into anaphylactic shock from just being within close range. The most common products to look out for when putting together school Valentines or preparing a special meal for your loved ones are tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, milk, and eggs. Always ask before giving food as a gift and read the labels carefully if you know someone has an allergy or sensitivity.
Home Cooked Disasters
A home-cooked meal can certainly add to the ambiance of a relaxing Valentine’s date, but not if you end up in the hospital before you can eat it! The anxiety and pressure of pulling off the perfect meal can easily cause distractions that lead to horrifying accidents in the kitchen if you aren’t paying attention. Serious burns, severe lacerations, and entrees that set the kitchen on fire will not impress your special dinner guest. Stay alert and relaxed when cooking, or, if you’re not afraid to admit that you’re no Gordon Ramsey, order some take-out to save time and stress.
“Love Injuries”
Going to the hospital with a cooking injury isn’t the most embarrassing accident that can happen on Valentine’s Day. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, February is considered one of the most dangerous months when it comes to “love injuries,” with many failed attempts to add some spice to a romantic night. Some romantic experiments have gone so horribly wrong they’ve resulted in internal organ damage, concussions, fractures, hemorrhages, poisonings, and other disabling injuries. Try to take it easy with the risk-taking this Valentine’s Day and don’t be afraid to seek medical attention as soon as something goes wrong—don’t wait.
Harmful Treats for Kids
Children can sometimes overdo it when it comes to sweets. Aside from the upset stomach your little one can get from eating too much candy, some children can have deadly reactions to Valentine’s Day treats if no one is monitoring their consumption. Younger children who cannot read labels yet are at especially high risk if they have a serious food allergy that can result in a hospital visit. Make sure your child’s school is aware of your child’s food allergy and has a strict policy when it comes to food that can come into the classroom.
No Chocolate for The Pets
Like young children, pets who are curious about Valentine’s Day treats aren’t aware that they can be poisonous for them. Chocolate (especially dark chocolate) and candies containing xylitol can be extremely deadly for dogs and cats. Try not to share your love by offering a toxic treat to your furry friend or leaving your Valentine’s gifts unaccounted for within their reach. Instead, opt for a new toy or appropriate treat to share the holiday spirit with your pet!
Use your best judgment this Valentine’s Day and don’t sacrifice safety in the name of love!
Miller Trial Law wishes everyone a safe and happy Valentine’s Day! However, injuries do inevitably happen, so if you or a loved one was injured, please call us today at (305) 697-8312 for a free, no-risk consultation. We look forward to serving you!
