Each year, drunk driving is involved in more than 135 traffic fatalities (on average) during the New Year’s holiday, which represents about 40 percent of the total traffic fatalities during the holiday period (2011–2021). Whether you are hosting or attending a New Year's celebration, make a resolution to celebrate it responsibly and safely.
New Year's Eve Safety Tips
Quick Tips
- Practice proper fireworks safety, and be aware of local and state fireworks laws.
- Do not let a person who has been drinking get behind the wheel of a vehicle. Take the person's keys and help arrange a safe ride home.
- Carry a cell phone charger to ensure your cell phone is available in case of an emergency.
- Report drunk drivers and suspicious individuals to law enforcement.
Hosting a Celebration
Hosting a New Year's party is a fun way to bring in the New Year with loved ones. Help keep your attendees safe during the celebration:
- Practice proper fireworks safety, and be aware of local and state fireworks laws.
- Avoid drunk driving by designating someone to collect car keys.
- Pop champagne bottle corks away from guests and at a 45-degree angle.
- Enforce a maximum number of alcoholic drinks people can consume.
- Provide partygoers the opportunity to sleep over in a guest bedroom or on couches.
- Do not let a person who has been drinking get behind the wheel of a vehicle. Take the person's keys and help arrange a safe ride home.
Attending a Celebration
Attending a New Year's celebration can be fun, but also full of potential hazards. When attending or traveling, practice proper precautions:
- Attend the celebration with trusted friends or loved ones.
- Choose a designated driver responsible for driving the group home from the celebration.
- Carry a cell phone charger to ensure your cell phone is available in case of an emergency.
- Consume food before drinking alcoholic beverages.
- Monitor your alcohol intake, and do not allow yourself (or others who have been drinking) to drive.
- Always wear a seat belt.
- Report drunk drivers and suspicious individuals to law enforcement.
