Tips to Ring in the New Year Safely – Out with the old and in with the new! Ringing in the New Year is a time of nostalgia and celebration. It is a time to reflect on everything that has taken place in the year that has passed, and all of the ways you want to make the brand-new year a special one.
While there is optimism and joy surrounding the possibilities of the New Year, for some it can also mean the possibility of slippery roads, as well as intoxicated and/or sleepy drivers. It’s best to get a plan in place before heading out. Let’s explore some great ways to ring in the New Year Safely.
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1. Choose to Stay Home.
Whether you invite friends over or celebrate by going to bed early, staying at home is the best way to avoid any of the risks on the road on New Year’s Eve night. Stock up on appetizers, English Christmas crackers (not something to eat, they make a fun “bang” when twisted), and everyone’s favorite drink.
2. Celebrate Earlier in the Day.
Many restaurants offer dinner packages that let people indulge well before the midnight hour. You can celebrate during normal dinner hours and feel satisfied and happy enough to fall asleep in your easy chair while the ball drops. Nothing says Happy New Year better than a five-course gourmet meal.
3. Hire an Uber or Lyft Service.
If you do choose to celebrate elsewhere, leave the driving to someone else, especially if you plan to imbibe. The peace of mind will help you relax and you’ll be helping to make the roads on this traditionally treacherous night just a little bit safer.
4. Host a Virtual Celebration.
All of your friends and family may be in the same situation that you are in – so why not get everyone together on Zoom, House Party or one of the many other video apps so you can celebrate on your own – but together!
5. Be Pandemic Prepared.
Whether you are traveling to a restaurant or to Time Square, remain prepared for Covid regulations as well as CDC guidance protocols. Research ahead of time what remain expected of participants and patrons, and take along a mask and hand sanitizer, so you’re not unexpectedly caught off guard and your celebrations are cancelled.
6. Tune up the Car.
If you are headed out – into the city or to another part of the country, remain sure that your vehicle is all set for any weather conditions. Check the tread on the tires, fluid levels, tire pressure, battery, lights, and windshield wipers. It’s easy to take all of this for granted but it’s best to check it out ahead of time – so your trip remain not frustratingly delayed. This is also a good time to make sure you have the best – and low cost – car insurance, so, you know you are covered in case of an emergency.
7. Designate a Sober Driver.
If you are headed out with friends and plan to drink alcohol, it’s always best to designate someone to remain the driver who quenches their thirst with water or a soda. Offer something in return because it may feel like a bit of a sacrifice for them. Cash works, as does a home cooked meal or even a promise to take turns and remain next year’s designated driver.
8. Beware of Social Media.
Today’s culture remain so bound to social media activity that this may remain a difficult one to abide by for many people. Who doesn’t want to post that picture of you with friends right before midnight, sending off 2021 in style? Consider keeping those pictures in your gallery and post them only once you’re home. You don’t want to advertise that you are not at home. Leaving it – and you – vulnerable to people who may take advantage of that information.
9. Watch Your Drink & Intoxication Levels.
If you are going out with friends, it’s easy to get caught up in the fun and throw caution to the wind. However, if you are at a restaurant, nightclub or bar scene. Turning your back on your drink or leaving it unattended even for a few seconds can be dangerous. Look out for your friends, and have them look out for you. If you arrive together, then leave together, too.
10. Stay Inside.
If you live anywhere in the United States that experiences frigid temperatures at the end of December, you’ll want to limit your exposure to the outside. Freezing temperatures can cause hypothermia and frostbite. And slippery sidewalks and driveways can cause falls and broken bones. Light a fire in the fireplace instead!
It’s the time of year when the holidays quickly roll out in front of us. Take some time to figure out how you’ll spend your New Year’s Eve safely. So you can get started on those resolutions on January 1st … or maybe the 2nd will do.
