Several times throughout the year we approach holidays with the anticipation and excitement of entertaining. Families and friends visit with us and, in turn, we visit them. Let's face it. We all want things to be perfect but, without a doubt, many times things can go wrong. Here are a few tips to keep your guest safe while visiting with you. Remember these for those occasions when you are visiting with others.

-Always keep children away from cooking areas. Stoves, grills and deep fryers are all dangerous areas for children to be playing around.

-Avoid table clothes that hang over a table when there are young children around, especially toddlers. Grabbing hold of that table cloth will result in everything on the floor and possibly a hurt child.

-Make sure the food is cooked to temperature and that cold foods are kept cold. No one wants to make their guests sick.

-If you don't want it touched, then remove it from sight.

-Remove any potential hazards when children will be present. Having your sword collection on display is a great conversation piece until a 10 year old possibly sets eyes on it. Or pool balls on a pool table can mean a game of catch.

-If there are young children or pets visiting, remove poisonous plants. It's better to be safe than sorry.

-If there are a lot of children attending your gathering, set up a table for the children right near the adults table. They can have their conversations while the adults have theirs. Put them close enough so that you can watch over them.

-No one wants to get sick after visiting friends and family. Politely ask that no one double dips or uses their utensils to get food. Have designated utensils in each dish that you are serving.

-Tell all of the children to wash their hands before they eat. This is something they should already know but may forget with the excitement of the visit. Remind them. It is also a good way to remind the adults to wash their hands too.

Family and friend gatherings are wonderful ways to spend the holiday. Making them less stressful is even better. Sometimes things can't be avoided but at least you will know that you did your best to avoid any mishaps.