Be Safe When Ringing in the New Year
Regardless of whether you're going out, or staying in for New Years celebrations, safety should always be top of mind.
Regardless of whether you’re going out, or staying in for New Years celebrations, safety should always be top of mind. New Year’s Eve is actually one of the more dangerous holidays for car accidents. Here are a few tips to share about being safe when ringing in the new year:
Drink responsibly — This can be whether you decide to go out, or even if you choose to stay home. Alcohol and safety don’t always go hand-in-hand. Pace yourself, and if you’re away from home, make sure you have a designated driver. If you’re the host, make sure those who are buzzed don’t get behind the wheel of a car. In some states, you can be held responsible for people who leave your party and cause damage.
If you’re the host, serve plenty of food. Not only will it keep guests happy, it’ll counter the effects of alcohol. If you’re going to a party and don’t plan to eat, make sure you do so before you leave.
Avoid loud music where guests will have to shout. If you do have guests, avoid accidental sharing of glasses by making sure everyone’s glass or champagne flute looks different. Use wine glass markers, colored glasses, or look into single serving wines or cans of bubbly.
No guns or fireworks — Shooting guns into the air is dangerous because the bullets will land somewhere and they could seriously hurt. Fireworks can be dangerous and may break local laws and noise ordinances. Stick to sparklers and noise makers.
Keep pets and children away from lit candles and fireplaces. Also, keep matches and lighters in a locked cabinet out of reach of children.
Do not leave food unattended in the kitchen when you are cooking, this is especially true when frying and boiling items on the stovetop. Keep children and pets away from cooking surfaces and hot pans and dishes.
Be mindful of your car. New Year’s Day is a top holiday for car thefts! If you’ll be away, don’t leave your car overnight, leave it at home if you won’t be driving home. Keep it in the driveway, and keep it locked.
Stay alert when walking and stay off your phone when walking. Did you know that New Year’s Day is the most dangerous day for pedestrians? Do not ignore traffic lights or crosswalks and be on the lookout for impaired drivers. The most dangerous time is 1-3 am.
And when it comes time for the New Year’s kiss, with COVID and the hacking cough lurking around, stick to kissing someone familiar, or at least someone who won’t get you a black eye afterward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the legal liability risks for hosts who serve alcohol during New Year’s events?
In many jurisdictions, hosts can be held legally liable for injuries or damages caused by intoxicated guests who leave their property and cause accidents or harm. This concept, known as “dram shop liability,” applies in numerous states and Canada. Hosts should ensure intoxicated guests do not operate vehicles and should provide alternative transportation options. Employers and event coordinators should be aware of these risks when hosting employee celebrations or work events. iSi Environmental helps organizations establish responsible alcohol service policies and event safety protocols.
Q: Are there local regulations governing fireworks and sparklers for New Year’s celebrations?
Regulations vary significantly by state, county, and city. Many jurisdictions have specific fireworks bans, noise ordinances, and restrictions on consumer fireworks. While sparklers are often permitted, fireworks and aerial devices are frequently prohibited due to fire and injury risks. Before planning events in Kansas, Oklahoma, or Texas, verify local regulations with your city or county fire marshal’s office. iSi Environmental can help event planners understand local regulations and develop compliant celebration plans.
Q: What OSHA standards apply to food preparation safety during holiday events and parties?
While OSHA generally does not regulate private homes, it does regulate food safety in commercial kitchens and workplace events. OSHA requires employers to ensure food preparation areas are safe, with proper controls for cooking surfaces, hot liquids, and equipment. When food safety is involved in workplace events, employers should follow FDA food safety guidelines and ensure proper handling and temperature control. For household food preparation, general safety practices include never leaving cooking unattended, keeping children and pets away from hot surfaces, and storing flammable items away from cooking areas.
Q: What are the statistics on holiday season vehicle accidents and pedestrian injuries?
New Year’s Eve is recognized as one of the most dangerous holidays for traffic accidents due to impaired driving and reckless behavior. New Year’s Day has significantly elevated pedestrian injury rates, with the highest risk period between 1-3 a.m. Studies consistently show that alcohol impairment and distraction are primary contributing factors. CDC data emphasizes the importance of designated drivers, sober transportation, traffic safety compliance, and pedestrian awareness. iSi Environmental provides workplace safety training on preventing holiday-related incidents among employees.
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