Whether you choose to ring in the New Year in Times Square with tens of thousands of strangers or in your living room with close friends, ring in the new year with a party. Even though the it’s time to celebrate, make sure to follow these safety tips to keep your New Year’s Eve celebration healthy and safe.
1.) Drink Responsibly
Go easy on the alcohol, too. Pacing yourself prevents alcohol poisoning and ensures you can pay attention to your surroundings as you act smart and stay safe.
You may also consider skipping the alcohol this year. While this may not sound like the most fun option, it is definitely the safest one. If you know you’re going to be the person driving on New Year’s Eve, then the only way to ensure your sobriety is to skip the drinks. A little bit of responsibility can go a long way when drunk drivers are on the road and cops are around every corner
2.) Navigate Crowds
Whether you’re a guy or gal, grab a friend and travel in a group for safety. Keep an eye on your surroundings, never go anywhere with strangers and never leave your beverage unattended. Leave your valuables at home and hold your phone and wallet in a front pocket, too, especially if you’re headed to a crowded celebration downtown.
Have a plan and let your friends know where you’ll be and a plan to check in when you’re home.
Download and configure the Virtual Halo personal safety app on your iPhone; it’ll work on your Apple Watch as well. If you’re in a situation where you’re uncomfortable, an effortless push on the SOS button will let your emergency contacts know that you need help and your exact location.
3.) Designate A Driver
If you’re planning to drink, do not drive. Don’t let your drinking friends drive, either. Instead, choose a designated driver, hire a taxi, plan ahead with an Uber or Lyft, take public transportation or invite everyone to crash in your living room.
If you’re abstaining from alcohol, remember that winter weather can make roads slippery, particularly when you travel after dark. Drive carefully as you leave early, go slow and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. Of course, if the roads are too bad, stay home and watch the party on TV instead of going out this year.
4.) Decide Where You’re Staying The Night
This isn’t one of those nights where you “play it by ear.” Make a plan of where you’re going to stay and whom you’re going to stay with and let a close friend or family member know. When celebrating, it’s a much smarter move to crash on a friends couch than get into an accident on the road with someone else that hasn’t been as responsible as you. Asking your host to stay the night in advance is one of the best ways to have a fun night and still stay safe.
5.) Ban Guns and Fireworks
Stick with noise makers and sparklers if you need special effects on New Year’s Eve. Otherwise, an inexperienced user could kill or injure someone. Plus, shooting guns and fireworks could break local noise ordinances and other laws.
6.) Handle Food Safely
Appetizers, hors d’oeuvre and snacks keep the party going. Heat food adequately and refrigerate leftovers promptly, though, to prevent food poisoning. Check in with guests about possible food allergies, too, as you safely indulge in party foods.
Ringing in the new year is a fun tradition. Use these tips to keep the party, your guests and you safe and healthy.