2017 is right around the corner and whether 2016 was the best or worst year, everyone always loves sending it off with a bang on new years eve. To make sure your New Year’s Eve is fun and safe, here are a few safety tips to ensure you start 2017 off right.
Plan your Transportation
Don’t drink and drive. In fact, let’s rephrase that – NEVER drink and drive. Unless you’re hosting a party at your house, you’ll most likely be spending New Year’s Eve with friends and family that is a drive away, either at their house or at a bar. Plan to have a designated driver, call an Uber/cab, or crash on your friend’s couch. The surge pricing of an Uber or the restless night of sleep on a couch is far better than a DUI, or worse an accident.
There is no excuse for drinking and driving, so make sure your transportation is scheduled and taken care of before you clank your glass in celebration.
Safety in Numbers
It’s always better traveling with the ones you love, so make sure you’re never traveling alone on New Year’s Eve. A good portion of the population will be drinking that night, which by default will make traveling a little more dangerous. So always make sure you know where you’re going, and let people know so they can expect you. And above anything else, if you ever feel that you’re in an area (street or bar) that isn’t safe, simply leave with your friends.
Eat Your Dinner
Make sure that before you head out, you’re leaving with a full stomach. It’s the end of the year, so why not celebrate with your friends and family by eating a nice meal. Eating before drinking is always a good idea. It will help soak up the alcohol and keep you from snacking on the apps and candy at your friend’s party.
Communication is Key
Communication is everything and everything is communication. Make sure everyone in your party knows what you’re doing at all times. If you need to leave, let them know. If you’re heading to another party, let those people know that you’re on your way. Keeping them in the loop is just the kind thing to do on New Year’s Eve.
Have Fun
Finally, remember to have fun. Whether you’re standing in Times Square watching the ball drop, at a bar, with friends and family, or hanging in, say thank you for all the wonderful things that happened in 2016, and get ready to make 2017 a year full of love and happy memories.