(Provided photo)

Have some fun and sing to the tune of Let it Snow:

Oh, tis’ that special season

When I hope you’ll have good reason

To decorate with safety in mind

When it gets to be holiday time!

It’s the holidays and what better gift can I share with readers than a few reminders to make this the healthiest and safest of holiday seasons!

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Tree placement, care and decor

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¯ If you are going to have a tree in your home, secure it well to keep it from tipping and keep it away from floor heaters, fireplaces, or other heat sources.

¯ Make sure your tree has water every day to prevent it from drying out and increasing its risk of becoming a fire hazard.

¯ Inspect your light strands and replace any that appear damaged with wires that appear frayed, broken sockets for bulbs or excessive kinking or wear in the cords. Keep no more than three strands of lights linked together

¯ Place the small bulbs and ornaments high up in the tree so smaller children do not try to eat them and choke.

Fire prevention tips

¯ If you have an artificial tree, make sure it is fire resistant.

¯ Never use electric lights on a metallic tree or a person touching a branch will be in for a shocking experience.

¯ December is the month with the most candle-initiated house fires. If there are children in the home, avoid candles or at least keep them out of reach of small children.

¯ Do not put candles on trees whether or not children are present.

¯ Turn off all lights and blow out all candles when you sleep or leave the house to avoid a potential fire hazard.

¯ Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers are working.

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Holiday plants and party tips

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¯ Most holiday plants are safe but remember that mistletoe and holly berries eaten in excess can be dangerous.

¯ If your child does snack on a holiday plant and you are not sure whether it is toxic, you can always call the New England Regional Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222.

¯ Hosting a party in your home? Remember to clean up the night of the party. This will ensure that your child doesn’t discover alcoholic beverages or even small snack foods left out that can be choking hazards the morning after.

To wrap up… (sing to the tune of Little Town of Bethlehem):

As you decorate your homes

Safety hazards you will rid

This is pediatrician Dr. Lewis First

Hoping you’ll be first with kids!

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Lewis First, MD, is Chief of Pediatrics at the Golisano Children’s Hospital at UVM Health and Chair of the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Vermont’s Larner College of Medicine. You can also catch “First with Kids” weekly on WOKO 98.9FM and MyNBC 5.