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Tips to Stay Safe This New Year’s Eve: Celebrate Smart in South Florida

2025 candles lit with people behind

Health & Wellness

New Year’s Eve is all about ringing in the new year with joy, but let’s make sure you do it safely. Whether you’re planning a big bash, heading out to see fireworks, or staying at home, here are some tips from Jackson Health System to help you stay safe while having a great time.

1. If You’re Drinking, Don’t Drive
South Florida roads get busy on New Year’s Eve, if you’re going to drink:

  • Plan ahead. Use a ride-share app, call a cab, or designate a sober driver.
  • Pace yourself. Alternate alcoholic drinks with water to stay hydrated and keep things under control.
  • Stay where you are. If you’re at a friend’s house, see if you can stay overnight to avoid driving.

2. Stay Alert on the Road
Even if you’re sober, driving on New Year’s Eve requires extra caution:

  • Stay alert and defensive on the road. Watch for erratic driving behavior, keep a safe distance, and consider limiting your time on the road late at night to reduce risks.

3. Firework Fun Without the Fuss
Fireworks are part of the celebration, but can be dangerous if not handled carefully. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, an estimated 10,000 people are treated in U.S. hospital emergency rooms for fireworks-related injuries each year. Here’s how to stay safe:

  • Stick to legal fireworks and always follow the instructions.
  • Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case of a fire-related emergency.
  • Watch from a safe distance.
  • Never let children handle fireworks.

4. Skip the Gunfire
Firing guns into the air isn’t only illegal, but it’s also incredibly dangerous. Stray bullets can cause serious harm. Instead:

  • Use noisemakers, horns, or even pots and pans to make some festive noise.
  • Call 911 if you hear gunfire—your quick action could save a life.

5. Be the Host with the Most (Safety)
Hosting a party? Keep your guests safe and happy:

  • Provide plenty of food to balance out any drinking.
  • Offer non-alcoholic options as an alternative for guests.
  • Make sure no one drives home if they’ve had too much to drink. Instead, call them a ride or offer them a place to stay.

6. Don’t Forget About Your Pets
Fireworks and loud parties can stress out your furry friends. Help them feel safe:

  • Keep pets inside with soft music or a television playing to drown out loud noises.
  • Double-check that they’re wearing an identification tag in case they get scared and run off.

7. Celebrate Safely on the Water
If you’re taking the celebration to South Florida’s beautiful waterways:

  • Skip the booze if you’re driving the boat.
  • Make sure there’s a life jacket for each passenger.
  • Stick to well-lit areas and watch out for other boats.

Let’s make 2025 a year to remember—for all the right reasons. Stay safe, celebrate smart, and have an amazing New Year’s Eve! Cheers!