Wrap rage, heavy metals and other dangers under the tree

By now, we assume you've (safely) hung all of your lights, after first checking to make sure none of them were subject to a recall. And if you're lighting candles as part of your holiday celebration, you're doing so safely. But if you really want a safe and happy holiday, there's one more thing you need to address: unwrapping the presents. That's right, those festive, carefully wrapped gifts under the tree harbor hidden dangers that you should take into account before ripping them open (and, no, we're not talking about paper cuts). 

First up is the paper itself. We know that a lot of people have a tradition of tossing gift wrap into their fireplace as gifts are unwrapped. Avoid the temptation. Why? Fires started with wrapping paper burn rapidly, intensely and can create a bigger fire. That, in turn, can create a big problem, especially if the chimney is lined with creosote, which is combustible, the National Association of State Fire Marshals cautions. If  that's not enough reason,consider this: Inks used in wrapping may contain heavy-metal compounds and metallic materials. (How do you think those bright colors get there?)  Even a small amount of these materials can pose risks when released into the air when the paper is burned, one reason green-minded consumers opt for wrapping paper made with recycled paper and soy-based inks (though not all such ink is identified). 

Once you've unwrapped those presents, you may be faced with another safety concern: Getting the gift out of the box. As outlined in CR's Oyster Awards, many manufacturers have migrated from traditional easy-to-open cardboard boxes to hard plastic "clamshells." These often require tools such as knives or scissors to open, exposing consumers to two risks: hand injuries from the sharp implements used to open the case, and additional cuts and bruises from the sharp edges that are often exposed once the package is sliced open (not to mention clamshell-induced "wrap rage" ). As part of the next edition of the Oyster Awards, we'll be testing some tools designed specifically to open clamshells. An additional risk comes from the tightly wound wires, rubber bands and strapping tape used to keep toys in position within packages. These can all be choking or hand-injury risks, especially to younger children, and toys packaged this way should only be opened by an adult. Our advice: If the presents aren't already under the tree, unbox them, put aside the troublesome packaging materials, and repack them loosely so the kids can still have fun taking them out of the box (save all packing materials in case the gift needs to be returned). Otherwise, be prepared with your toolbox on Christmas morning. 

Previously: 

• Holiday merriment beset by recalls and falls 
• Stay safe while hanging holiday lights 
• Holiday lights: the movie 
• Tips for safe ladder use 
• Turkey tips for Thanksgiving and beyond 
• Don't blow it: Tips for candle safety 
• Don't be a turkey: Gas fryers are unsafe

—Marc Perton