As the holidays approach, we look forward to getting out of our little circle, and going out and celebrating with the world. Office parties, New Year's dances and Christmas dinners give us a reprieve from the day to day and allow us to mix it up with others. But, along with this, there are a few potential health dangers that creep into our lives during our festivities. Keep an eye out for these potential health dangers as you go through your celebrations.

Food Prep Safety

Don't let foodborne illnesses spoil your holiday party. Many hosts find themselves preparing different foods, cooking in a hurry or cooking for large groups. Don't allow these distractions to cause you to slip up on some of those precautions you normally take.

For example, try not to let tardy guests compromise your food rules: always keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold. Temporary storage in the refrigerator or oven is preferable to waiting out on the table.

Uncooked or undercooked eggs are sometimes a part of certain holiday recipes, but thoroughly cooking eggs will kill bacteria such as salmonella. Be careful about licking the spoon as you make your baked goodies!


Avoid cross contamination by washing hands and surfaces between different courses. Bacteria can easily spread between raw meats and produce to other foods through your tables and counters, or on your hands. Don't send your guests home with any extra "surprises"!

Colds and Viruses

The holidays can certainly wreck your immunity! Between odd sleep patterns, missed workouts and other diversions, you may run into a cold before you know it. Add in all those hugs and handshakes at office and family get-togethers, and it's seems as though the deck is stacked against you.

Fight all those little monsters by washing your hands thoroughly and often. Adhere to your sleep and exercise schedule, and consider an extra dose of Echinacea or Vitamin C. Lastly, leave the party sometimes- go outside for a fresh breath of air.

Slips

Travelling from party to party to buffet is a sure to put you on some unfamiliar territory in the rainy, wet weather (or possibly a touch of snow this season) . Avoid injury by carefully locating clear walkways. Slowly negotiate the path to your festivities- this goes double for all the women in high heels and boots!

If you're the host, help out your guests by keeping walk ways clear and ice free. Nothing ruins a get together faster than a trip to the hospital.

Drunk Driving

Speaking of being out and about, coming home from all your gatherings needn't be a death match. Avoid those clods that still choose to put others lives in danger through drunk driving by keeping to the main roads, practicing defensive driving, and driving with a buddy. Report erratic drivers and avoid them at all costs.

Yes, the holiday season sure does add some extra "to dos" to your list when it comes to your health and safety, but the advice above should have you well on your way to a season of happy and healthy celebrations.