Celebrating New Year’s Eve safely:

Now that Christmas is over, New Years Eve planning is the next event to fall upon us. However you chose to celebrate the turn of the year, it’s important to us that you’re safe. 

We can expect many firework displays this year. Whether this is a small, garden get together or a large organised event there are several tips to keeping you and your loved ones safe.

Prepping for the day:

Across the Christmas and New Years period, many shops will have different opening times, with some days being closed all together. Therefore, we recommend filling up your at home first aid kit before the night. Key things to include are..

• Plasters
• Antiseptic wipes
• Gauzes
• Bandages
• Prescription medication
• Ibuprofen/Paracetamol
• Micropore tape

 

If you are planning to set off your own fireworks make sure you have a large space, with no obstructions such as trees so the fireworks can be safely let off. When it comes to actually buying the fireworks look for ones with CE grading as this means they meet European health standards. Both of these factors will reduce the risk of firework disasters. 

 

If you are going out to celebrate the night, ensure you have a designated driver or have arranged with a taxi firm to make sure you get home safe and are not drunk driving. With temperature often plummeting around the end of December and roads being icier it is important to be driving safely, you can read more on how to do that here. So drunk driving is an even bigger risk when the car requires more control.

 

On the night:

When it comes to New Years Eve, there’s lots you can do to remain safe. If using sparklers, it is recommended to have a bucket of sand or cat litter to safely put them out. You can use a bucket of water if you need to, however water does not extinguish the fire as well.

It is still a good idea to have a bucket of water handy, even if not for sparklers, as this will be useful if anyone suffers from a burn. To know how to properly deal with burns we have a blog all about them here.

If you are drinking, try to pace yourself and have a soft drink in between each alcoholic drink to reduce the risk of becoming too intoxicated. Never leave your drink unattended so you can ensure it stays safe.

Follow all guidance and rules on how to let fireworks off, making sure the person lighting them is sober and a trusted adult.

 

Aftermath:

The morning after, we recommend going out and having a check for any firework sticks. By discarding them into a bin, waste on the roads will be reduced. Also they will become a lower risk to wildlife who may become injured by them.

 

If you had been drinking the night before, drink a big glass of water and spend the day trying to rehydrate. If you’ve been sick or sweating make sure to top up your electrolytes through salty foods. Rest and relaxation may be your best friend, with leftover Christmas chocolates and the final few days of the TV Guide! 

 

Have a very happy New Year from ABC Training, see you in 2023.