Five Things That Could Ruin Your Health This Christmas

According to the CDC, about 6,000 people will go to the emergency room this year from falling while they put up Christmas decorations. Here are five things that could ruin your health this Christmas.

#1.) Homemade Eggnog. Unlike most drinks, you have to worry about salmonella. So if you're making your own this year, the FDA recommends heating the eggnog to at least 160 degrees to kill off any potential bacteria.

#2.) A Dry Christmas Tree. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, there are about 250 Christmas tree fires every year. And 13% of those are caused by faulty Christmas lights. You can reduce the risk by keeping your tree watered.

#3.) A Blocked Chimney. If you haven't used your fireplace since last year, make sure the chimney's not clogged with leaves or anything else. The U.S. Fire Administration recommends having your chimney inspected once a year.

Also, you're not supposed to throw wrapping paper in the fire. It's so light, it can float up and out of the chimney while it's still on fire. In other words, you could burn down your house, your neighbor's house or the surrounding property.

#4.) A Heart Attack. According to at least one study, more people have heart attacks on Christmas Day than any other day of the year. Potential triggers include stress, over-eating, and too much alcohol.

#5.) Drinking and Driving. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, alcohol-related deaths spike on Christmas and New Year's Day. So if you've been drinking, call a cab, have a designated driver, or stay put.

Source: MNN.com