Stay safe this Valentine's Day.

Valentine’s Day is here and love is in the air!  From romantic candlelight dinners to flowers to chocolates, it is easy to get caught up in the romance of Valentine’s Day.  Simple errors or carelessness is all it takes for you to find yourself with a huge safety issue.  This Valentine’s Day, the experienced lawyers at Hupy and Abraham S.C. want you to have a lovely time while still staying safe.

Candle and Fire Safety

If candlelight dining is something you do during your Valentine’s Day activities, you need to practice caution.  You also need to take care if relaxing in front of a crackling fire.  According to the National Fire Protection Association, three out of every five candle fires start because the candle is too close to a flammable object. 

Fireplaces and indoor candles pose minimum risk when used properly.  However, chances are you will be more occupied with your company than the open flames.  

  • Do not leave candles burning.  Blow them out if you leave a room.
  • Do not leave clothing or blankets next to an open flame, including your fireplace.
  • Inspect your fireplace and chimney before using it.  A dirty fireplace is a serious fire hazard.
  • Carefully watch meals on the stovetop or in the oven and set timers so things are not forgotten.
  • Check your home’s smoke detectors to ensure they are working properly.

Alcohol

Valentine’s Day falls on a Friday this year.  Many of us will enjoy a bottle of wine or cocktails when out for the evening. 

Make sure you have completely gotten rid of any alcohol from your system before driving.

While you're making your Valentine's Day reservations, be sure that you include plans for a safe ride home.  

Pets

Thinking of sending flowers to your Valentine?  Avoid lilies for cat owners since they can cause kidney failure and amaryllis for dog and cat owners since they can cause a host of problems.

If you receive roses or other thorny-stemmed flowers, dethorn them before putting the bouquet out to be enjoyed.  If your pet swallows, bites or steps on the thorns, it can end up with a serious infection.

Watch the chocolate. We love it, but it is bad for pets.  It causes horrible effects on gastrointestinal, neurologic and cardiac functions.  The same goes for treats sweetened with xylitol.  Keep candy out of their reach.

While we cannot ensure that you will be with the love of your life this Valentine’s Day, these tips can help keep you safe, whatever your plans.  In the unfortunate event that you or a loved one has suffered an injury this Valentine’s Day, it is important that you contact an experienced personal injury attorney right away.  Please call us at 800-800-5678 for a free consultation, or start a live chat with us anytime.

Jill Erin Wellskopf
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Director of Marketing, Hupy and Abraham