Hot gravy has been named as an unexpected hazard that could send people to A&E this Christmas.
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde has issued a warning ahead of the festive season, urging residents to take extra care to avoid burns, cuts and other avoidable injuries that could disrupt celebrations.
Other common Christmas mishaps include cuts from box cutters or craft knives while opening presents, falls from ladders while hanging decorations or retrieving gifts from lofts, and digestive issues such as acid reflux or constipation.
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But hot gravy, it seems, remains a surprisingly frequent source of injury.
Dr Claire Harrow, deputy medical director for acute services, said: "Christmas Day is full of excitement and, let’s be honest, a bit of chaos.
"When things get hectic, accidents can happen in seconds.
"We’re asking everyone to enjoy the celebrations but take care, especially in the kitchen."
Other reasons people self-present at A&E on Christmas Day include upset stomachs and seasonal respiratory illnesses, many of which could be managed elsewhere.
Dr Harrow said: "A&E is for urgent injuries and life-threatening emergencies.
"For minor injuries or illnesses, you should start by trying to treat from home or call NHS 24 on 111 if you’re unsure.
"They’ll give advice and arrange an appointment if needed, either virtually or in person.
"No one wants to spend Christmas Day in a waiting room."
Paediatricians are also urging parents and carers to be extra cautious to prevent serious injuries among children during the festivities.
Jenna Hill, major trauma coordinator at the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow, said: "Bikes and scooters without motors are popular gifts.
"If Santa is delivering any unmotorised items with wheels, then we would also encourage this to come with a helmet."
She also highlighted ongoing safety concerns about eScooters and eBikes.
Jenna said: "Our campaign alongside Police Scotland recently highlighted the dangers of (motorised) eScooters and eBikes, and the risk of serious injury is real and rising.
"It’s important that people remember that eScooters are illegal to use in public spaces and it is illegal for under-14s to ride on eBikes in Scotland."
Other seasonal hazards for children include button batteries.
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Dr Joanne Stirling, consultant in paediatric emergency medicine at the Royal Hospital for Children, urged families to be especially careful with toys and household items.
She warned that button batteries, if swallowed, would be a hazard. Most UK toys have batteries secured, but check any bought from abroad.
She also warned that severe burns from hair straighteners, even when switched off, can stay hot.
Swallowing Liquitabs or cleaning products, as they can often look like sweets.
She advised that they be stored high and that cupboard locks should be used.
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