10-9-8-7-6-5-4-3-2….
Are you ready to ring in 2016?
From champagne and music to illuminating fireworks, New Year’s Eve brings a time for renewal, joy and fun. Whether you plan to head out to Times Square or gather at home with close friends, be sure to review these guidelines to help you and your friends celebrate in style while staying safe on New Year’s Eve.
CHAMPAGNE (and other alcohol)
New Year’s Eve is a great excuse to spend time with friends and have a few drinks. If you drink alcoholic beverages, be sure to do so responsibly.
- Eat a decent meal before you begin drinking and pace yourself.
- Drink responsibly. Do not mix prescription medications or drugs with alcohol.
- Alternate alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
- Drink “mocktails” – non-alcoholic versions of popular drinks.
FIREWORKS
Some people have a blast using fireworks to celebrate holidays and the new year. If you enjoy fireworks, take these necessary precautions to safely illuminate the night.
- Carefully read and follow firework instructions.
- Know the local laws regarding the use of fireworks.
- Always have an adult supervise fireworks.
- Never keep fireworks in your pocket or on your person.
- Use safety goggles and keep a bucket of water nearby in case of emergency.
- Never attempt to ignite a firework that didn’t work previously – this could create a safety hazard.
- Always light fireworks individually in a large outdoor area free from debris, buildings, and vehicles.
- Never shoot fireworks into glass, metal, or any other type of container.
- Throw out all used fireworks in a metal garbage can after dousing with water.
TRAVEL ON NEW YEAR’S EVE
If possible, stay off the roads. New Year’s Eve is one of the riskiest nights for car travel due to the number of vehicle accidents involving drunk drivers. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) will enforce the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign with the objective to reduce the number of traffic fatalities over the holiday period. Last year, over 800 lives were lost in traffic fatalities over the holidays; nearly 40% of these accidents involved alcohol impairment.[1]
- Never drink and drive.
- Determine a Designated Driver before arriving at any party.
- If public transportation is not available, take along the number of a reputable taxi service and use it!
- If you have no safe alternative transport, stay where you are.
PUBLIC VENUES
If you’re going to watch the ball drop in New York City or attend a concert in a public venue, be sure to go with a group of friends – think about safety in numbers.
- Make a clear emergency and communication plan in case you get separated.
- Keep an eye on your friends; know the signs of alcohol poisoning and call 9-1-1 immediately if you suspect someone is in danger. Take a minute to review important alcohol poisoning signs by clicking on http://awareawakealive.org/educate/know-the-signs
- Survey your surroundings. If something just doesn’t feel safe, leave with your group.
THE NEXT MORNING
After a great time with friends and arriving home safely, you managed to get some sleep. However, if you are exhausted or had a bit too much champagne, be sure to hydrate and rest.
- Drink lots of water and non-caffeinated, non-alcoholic liquids to hydrate your body.
- Eat a healthy breakfast.
- Get plenty of rest.
- Start your New Year’s Resolution!
Goldman & Daszkal, P.A. wishes you and your loved ones a very safe and happy new year. Please pass along these important holiday tips to your friends and family!
Since 1990, Goldman & Daszkal, P.A. has provided reputable legal representation to people throughout Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade Counties. The firm has helped thousands of individuals recover compensation from motor vehicle and boating accidents, slip and fall accidents, product defect and liability cases, pharmacy errors, and negligent security cases to cover medical expenses, pay bills, take care of their families, and return to work. Goldman & Daszkal, P.A. can help you get the relief you need to start living your life again after a serious injury. For a free and confidential consultation, contact Goldman & Daszkal, P.A., at (954) 428-9333.
[1] National Highway Traffic Safety Administration http://www.nhtsa.gov/Misc/HeadLines