The holiday season is here at last, but where did the time go? As joyful of a season as this time is, there is always the possibility of mishaps occurring. As much as the staff at Kona Community Hospital in Kealakekua, HI, would love for you to come visit the hospital, they'd rather have you spend that time with your loved ones.

That's why the hospital has compiled a short list of common occurrences in their continuing effort to provide the Kealakekua area with the best possible health care and services:

• Choking: Choking can happen to anyone. Keep hard to chew foods away from children, and pay close attention to the age requirements on certain toys.
• Burns & Fire: These are very common around this time of year with the lighting of candles near wrapping paper or trees. If you must light a candle, be sure to do it far away from flammable objects. Pay close attention to your fireplace, use a screen to keep rogue sparks from flying out, and if a fire does occur be sure to use a fire extinguisher instead of water.
• Toy Hazards: Keep a close eye on your child as they try out a new bike or skateboard. Most scrapes can be tended to with a basic first aid kit, but if it’s something more serious remember that emergency physician services at Kona Community Hospital are always available to handle any situation.
• Small Cuts: Small kitchen incisions are usually caused by poor knife handling, so be sure to keep your knives sharpened, cut away from your body, and always hand knives with the handle side first.
• Electrical Issues: Make sure all electrical sockets are plugged in all the way, and never plug more than three strands of lights into an extension cord.
• Poisonous Holiday Plants: Plants like holly berries, Jerusalem cherry, and even Mistletoes can be harmful to humans and pets.

Following these safety tips should ensure that your family gathering is a successful, harm-free one. If you have any questions, call Kona Community Hospital at (808) 322-9311 or visit the hospital online. The entire staff wishes you and your loved ones a very safe and happy holiday!