Decorations are up and holiday functions are in full swing. This time of year usually brings much joy and happiness but can also bring increased safety concerns. I want to encourage you to be mindful of some extra precautions you can take during your holiday celebrations.
Everyone loves celebrating New Year’s Eve with friends and family; however, there is a safe way to do this. Two concerns come to mind during the holiday season: 1) an increase in alcohol consumption and 2) fireworks-related injuries.
In order to stay safe, I have provided you with some safety tips when ringing in the New Year:
Alcohol Safety:
- Don’t drink and drive! Remember buzzed driving is drunk driving.
- Make a safety plan BEFORE you consume any alcohol. Many injuries and deaths on roads every year are due to drinking and driving.
- When outside at public functions never leave your drink unattended.
- Stay with your friends and family. If you need to leave them, maintain communication so someone always knows where you are and who you are with.
Firework Precautions:
- Fireworks and alcohol do not mix! Designate a sober individual to manage the fireworks.
- Never aim a firework at anyone.
- Fireworks should be set off only in open spaces and locations.
- Back away quickly after lighting a firework.
- Keep a bucket of water and a hose close by in case of fire.
- Supervise children closely.
This is truly a special time of the year and safety sometimes falls to the wayside. These listed safety tips are a friendly way to remind us that with a little pre-planning, we can still enjoy our family and friends this holiday season. Remember prepared not paranoid is the first step to your safety.
Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and please have a safe and Happy New Year!