Staying safe on New Year's Eve

Before we can start breaking those New Year’s resolutions we first must get through the New Year’s celebrations safe and secure.

Ringing in the new year may be as simple for you as staying up until midnight to watch the ball drop in New York or as extravagant as a quick trip to Vegas, but there are some things to take into consideration no matter where you are for the big night.

First, and foremost, if you drink alcohol, drink responsibly.

Many of our local drinking establishments will be holding New Year’s Eve celebrations, and if you’re planning on drinking, do not drive. Don’t let your drinking friends drive, either.

In big cities, its as simple as calling a cab, but here you should choose a designated driver or make arrangements with a non-drinking friend or family member to pick you up after your night on the town.

Be sure to eat something before heading out for the night to give your body something else to work off of other than alcohol. Eating while you’re drinking will slow down the absorption of alcohol, too, and high protien choices are best.

Drinking responsibly doesn’t just mean don’t drink and drive, it also means go easy on your intake so you are always aware of your surroundings.

This is especially important if you are travelling out of town for a special event. You are definitely there to have a great time, but you may be in an area you’re not completely familiar with and surrounded by crowds of people you do not know.

Be sure to pop those champagne corks away from people. Sure, we’ve all seen the YouTube videos of people getting hit with champagne corks and probably laughted at them, but its all fun and games until someone loses an eye.

Its a good idea to leave your valuables at home and keep your wallet in your front pocket if you’re going to be in a crowded venue, too.

Yes, New Year’s Eve is a celebration, but keep in mind fireworks are not allowed within the city limits. Don’t even consider discharging your firearm in lieu of fireworks, either. What goes up does come down and a stray bullet is not the way you want to start 2019.

Most of all, have fun as you celebrate this new beginning!