Stay Safe on New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve is one of the world’s biggest celebrations. Between the parties, alcohol, and traveling, New Year’s Eve festivities make it all too easy for something to go wrong. Have a great time this year while staying safe with a few simple tips.

If you’re going out:

• Dress appropriately. You might be tempted to wear your stiletto heels, mini skirt or short dress, and leave your jacket at home, but if you live in a cold climate, that may not be safe. What if you get stranded on the side of the road or are suddenly in a situation where you’re vulnerable to an attacker? Being warm and able to move quickly and safely is always more important than wearing those high heeled shoes and strapless dress. If you’re looking for style, pull on a pair of nice (flat) boots and wear a long coat over your New Year’s Eve outfit.
• Appoint a designated driver. Plan ahead for your evening out by selecting a trusted friend to be a designated driver before you start drinking. Even if you think you’re OK to drive, always use your designated driver. Never drive if you have been drinking.

If you’re hosting a party:

• Collect your guests’ keys at the door. Make it clear to your guests that you don’t want them driving if they have been drinking. Collect everyone’s keys when they arrive and only give them back to your guests if they have either sobered up or have not been drinking at your house.
• Select a taxi service or plan for house guests. For guests who have been drinking, call a taxi to take them home or allow them to stay overnight at your house. This takes a little extra effort, but people’s lives could be at stake.

If you’re traveling:

• Have a winter survival kit in your car. New Year’s Eve is also a time when big winter storms hit across the United States. Be prepared for severe weather with a good ice scraper and brush, a flashlight, a small snow shovel, winter-grade windshield washing solution, jumper cables, an extra blanket, and anything else you may need in the event of severe weather.
• Keep your home safe. Break-ins can be common during the holiday season, so keep your home safe by installing a home alarm system and motion sensor lights, checking the batteries in your smoke alarms, and parking your car in the garage.