Here are the top 10 safety tips for New Years Eve:
Secure a ride early
Rideshare prices and wait times increase between 12:00 a.m. and 2:00 a.m. Decision-making skills also decrease late at night. You should pre-book a ride early in the day. If you have a designated driver, confirm they are committed. If you walk, stay on lit roads. New Year’s Day is historically hazardous for pedestrians because of impaired drivers.
Drive defensively
Roads are full of people who have been drinking. Avoid driving during peak hours for impairment, which are ‘1:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m.’ If you see a driver swerving, stay behind them. Do not try to pass. Pull over and call 911 when it is safe.
Make a ‘separation plan’
Cell phone networks often fail at midnight due to heavy traffic. This makes it hard to call friends if you get separated. You should set a physical meeting point, such as ‘the north entrance of the subway station,’ before you enter a crowded event. Agree on a time to meet there.
Watch drinks closely
Crowded bars are common places for drink spiking. Never leave a drink unattended. If you need to use the bathroom, finish the drink or hand it to a friend. If a drink tastes ‘off’ or salty, discard it immediately.
Post photos later
Posting real-time photos shows criminals that your home is empty. You should post photos and videos after you return home. Make your home look occupied while you are out by leaving a light on or a TV playing.
Leave fireworks to professionals
Amateur fireworks cause many injuries. If you use consumer fireworks, keep a bucket of water nearby. ‘Never’ attempt to relight a firework that failed to ignite. You must wait 20 minutes and then soak it in water.
Keep pets inside
Noise from fireworks can cause pets to panic. New Year’s Eve often sees an increase in lost pets. Keep animals indoors in an interior room with a radio on to hide outside noise. Check that collars and tags are secure before the night begins.
Open champagne carefully
A cork can fly fast and cause eye injuries. You should chill the champagne to ’45°F’ because warm bottles pop with more force. Angle the bottle 45 degrees away from people. Place a towel over the top to catch the cork while twisting.
Follow the ‘one-for-one’ rule
Drinking too much leads to alcohol poisoning and dehydration. Drink one glass of water for every alcoholic beverage. This paces intake. Eat a meal with protein and carbs before drinking to slow absorption.
Charge phones fully
A dead phone leaves you without access to maps or emergency contacts. Start the night with 100% battery and bring a portable charger. Cold weather drains batteries faster, so keep the phone in an ‘inside pocket’ to keep it warm.
