How to Stay Safe When You Go Out to Celebrate With Friends
Celebrating with friends is one of the most enriching parts of life. Parties, outings, and festivities abound this time of year, and everyone wants to create great memories. No one wants to end up at the hospital or police station in that pursuit, however. Here are some ways to ensure that you have a great time from start to finish and end the night safe and sound.
Stick to Well-Lit Areas
The holidays are an opportune time for petty thieves to break into cars or even assault unsuspecting revelers. According to the Edmonton Police Service, this is far less likely to happen if you stick to well-lit areas, especially if you will be parking your car until very late at night. If you have a distance to walk, navigate your path ahead of time and stick to illuminated, busy paths. Another reason for doing this is so that you will be more visible to motorists. Wear bright colors to reduce your chances of being hit by a car. Well-lit areas are also more likely to be controlled for ice or other hazards that could lead to an accidental injury.
Assign a Designated Driver
This should be a no-brainer, but it is always good to be reminded. If there is a chance you will be drinking, don’t drive. You are considered impaired if you have a blood alcohol level of .08% or more. All it takes for most people to hit this level is twenty-four ounces of beer (2 standard cans), 10 ounces of wine (a little more than one cup), and two shots of hard liquor. Because weight, sex, and metabolism can affect blood alcohol levels in either direction, it is best to assign a designated driver if you will be drinking at all. If you don’t have a friend willing to refrain from drinking and be the designated driver, hire a cab or other driver service ahead of time. There are a lot of good reasons not to drink and drive. Driving while impaired puts your life and the lives of everyone you come in contact with in danger. Plus, it is illegal. According to the Law Office of Conor Bell, a DUI can lead to serious consequences, even if it’s your first.
Stay in Groups
There is always safety in numbers. When you are with other people, you are far less likely to be a target of crime. Whether you are riding in a group, walking in a group, or attending a party with a group, you can all agree to watch out for one another. Friends don’t let friends drink too much or become the victim of assault. Celebrations are often accompanied by alcohol, but American Addiction Centers says alcohol creates a tunnel-vision effect that can greatly impair people’s judgement. When you agree to watch each other’s backs, you are all more likely to make wise choices and stay safe.
Be sure that your next party doesn’t end in tragedy. Have fun and stay safe by being smart. Making wise choices and planning ahead of time will allow you to let your hair down and have the time of your life without worrying about the consequences.
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