Although New Year's Eve is a celebratory event filled with revelry and anticipation, it's also one of the deadliest nights of the year. Temptation to drive drunk runs high, and last New Year's Eve, more than 120 drivers were killed due to drunk driving accidents, according to AAA. This year, plan ahead with these tips from Mother's Against Drunk Driving to have a safe and happy night:
If you're going out...
• Designate a sober driver to make sure you—and everyone with you—arrive home safely this holiday season.
• Save the number of a local cab service in your phone prior to heading out.
• Consider hiring a shuttle or limousine service to transport you and your friends to and from your event.
• Arrange a hotel stay for you and your friends on the evening of the event so no one drives home impaired.
If you're hosting a party...
• Offer non-alcoholic beverages or “mocktails” for designated drivers and others who prefer not to drink alcohol.
• As guests RSVP, confirm that at least one person in each group is prepared to be the sober designated driver and/or has a plan to get home.
• Provide plenty of food to keep your guests from drinking on an empty stomach.
• Avoid too many salty snacks, which tend to make people thirsty and drink more.
• If preparing an alcoholic punch, use a non-carbonated base, like fruit juice. Alcohol is absorbed into the blood stream faster with a carbonated base.
• Plan activities like party games or door prizes. Planned activities engage people, make for less active consumption of alcohol, and ensure that your friends remember the great event long after the last piece of confetti has settled.
