Cheers to a Safe New Year’s
Posted on: January 15, 2018Categories: LiveWell 24/7
New Year’s Eve can be one of the most fun holidays of the year, but it can also be one of the most dangerous. Much of this danger comes from drinking. Almost half of all car accidents on New Year’s Eve and Day are the result of drinking and driving.
While your New Year’s Even plans may include drinking, it is easy to stay safe and be responsible the whole night. Take precautions to protect yourself and those around you, and make a plan using the tips below:
- Don’t Drink and Drive: January 1st has the highest percent of deaths related to alcohol of the year. Always have a designated driver, or use a cab or Uber. Be aware of other drivers and always wear your seat belt!
- Pace Yourself: Be aware of how much you are drinking, and aim to drink no more than one drink per hour. Recognize the difference in one drink between types of alcohol, one 12 oz. beer = 4-5 oz. wine = 1.5 oz. of hard liquor.
- Be Aware of Mixers: Changing alcohol types throughout the night can contribute to sickness and worse hangovers. Choosing light liquors over dark liquors, which have a higher concentration of toxins, can prevent these. Carbonated mixers speed up the rate of alcohol absorption, so opt for non-carbonated fruit juice or flavored water instead.
- Drink Water: Alternate alcoholic drinks with water to avoid dehydration and to manage your level of intoxication.
- Eat Before and While Drinking: Never drink on an empty stomach. Be sure to eat a full meal ahead of time, and snack while drinking to slow down the absorption of alcohol.