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The holiday season has finally arrived. This is a time for relaxing, making memories and taking a break from the daily demands of your life. The last thing you want to do is think about potential emergencies while having the time of your life.

However, emergencies happen when you least expect them. It’s crucial to anticipate anything during the holidays. Read on for the top five holiday emergencies to prepare for.

Allergic Reactions

Seasonal allergies are common and can affect most people. The biggest concern is the pollen that starts in spring and continues into the summer. In most cases, mild allergic reactions can be treated with over-the-counter medications.

However, some cases are severe enough to cause life-threatening concerns. For example, they can trigger an asthma attack or anaphylactic shock. An allergic reaction can require immediate medical attention provided by emergency responders.

Overeating

The holidays are a time for overindulging on your favourite foods and treats. Those family dinners can raise a few medical concerns, such as severe abdominal pain. According to research, overeating increases your chances of experiencing chest pains and a heart attack in worst-case scenarios.

You should be careful of overeating. Here’s what you may feel if you eat more than you should during these holidays:

• Stomach ache.
• Acid reflux.
• Bloating and gas.
• Heartburn.
• Nausea.

Alcohol and Substance Abuse

It’s not surprising that alcohol and substance abuse are part of this holiday emergency list. There is a considerable spike in alcohol and substance-related injuries around this time of the year. The festive season sees alcohol consumption as a leading area of concern for most people.

Alcohol poisoning can make you severely ill and can potentially cause permanent brain damage. Sometimes, drinking large amounts of alcohol in one sitting can be deadly. While the holidays offer many opportunities to go out and have fun, you should be careful not to drink more than your body can take.

Car Crashes and Trauma

Every year, South Africans are encouraged to drive safely to minimise the risk of severe car crashes and trauma as they travel to their destinations. Besides the Easter holidays, the festive season marks heavy traffic, with millions rushing to spend Christmas and New Year’s with their loved ones. Car accidents and severe trauma are at the top of medical emergencies.

Distracted driving, fatigue and intoxication are some factors that can increase the risk of road accidents. While most accidents are preventable, some can be beyond your control. It’s crucial to remember that whether it’s minor or severe, a car accident can drastically change your life.

Kitchen Related Injuries

You wouldn’t think your kitchen is a landmine of disasters waiting to happen, yet it is. With Christmas lunch preparations and your eagerness to try out new recipes, you should remember that accidents can happen while cutting or oven-roasting your meal. Most importantly, research suggests that most home fires start in the kitchen.

You should remain cautious about what you do in the kitchen to prevent most kitchen-related injuries, such as cuts and burns. While most cuts can be treated at home, you should ensure you receive medical attention if the bleeding doesn’t stop or if you see bone, cartilage, or tendons. If you get second or third-degree burns, you should also ensure you visit the emergency room for proper medical treatment.

The holidays are a great way to reset and replenish your energy. Yet, whether you are on the road or making Christmas lunch, you should stay prepared for injuries and incidents that can lead you to the emergency room. The iER App provides immediate emergency response at your fingertips; download it today for a more relaxed festive season.