COVID throws extra wrench in NYE plans
New Year’s Eve celebrations are highly anticipated and are full of fun and excitement; safety, though, is just as important. Fireworks, alcohol and COVID can impact the safety of NYE events.
The pandemic is still in full effect, and the CDC released guidelines on how to celebrate the new year safely. Their guidelines include masks, hand washing and social distancing; they urged people to stay home, precautions for small gatherings include:
• Limit the number of guests.
• Keep celebrations outdoors (if possible).
• Ventilate air if the celebration is indoors, open windows and doors. Use a window fan to blow air out.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and items.
• Have guests bring their own food and drinks, as well as cups, plates and utensils.
• Have extra unused masks available for your guests and encourage everyone to wear them.
• Keep music low so people don’t feel the need to shout.
Fireworks light up the sky as the minutes count down to the end of the year. While they’re a fun staple in NYE celebrations, they can be dangerous. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)’s tips for firework safety include:
• Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
• Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees.
• Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
• Don’t attempt to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
• Don’t point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose close by.
• To prevent a trash fire, douse the firework device after use water before throwing it away.
• Make sure fireworks are legal in your area.
In any situation where drinking is involved, it’s important to remember to not drink and drive - make plans for a designated driver or stay over, and be sure to know your limit.