There are many ways to celebrate a new year. Some people attend big celebrations at New York or Toronto. Others have New Year’s parties with their friends and families. Others observe on their own, in quiet solitude.
One of the most important things to remember is that no matter how you celebrate — that it is done in a respectful and responsible manner. The biggest part of these responsibilities is to ensure that if you do indulge in drinking during your celebrations, that you do not get behind the wheel afterwards.
Even one drink can reduce your ability to react to things that happen suddenly while you are driving. The effects of alcohol include blurred or double vision, impaired attention and slowed reflexes.
The consequences for drinking and driving can be much harsher than receiving a ticket. Your life and the lives of others can change forever if you drive after drinking alcohol.
It is also difficult to understand the reasoning of “I have only had a few, I will be fine” when there are so many ways of getting home safely without getting behind the wheel. A person could call a cab, they could ensure to go out with a designated driver, or in bigger cities they can use the bus services.
As a designated driver myself, it has always been more important to me to ensure that my family and friends get home safely. I don’t mind driving a little out of my way to make sure that happens.
There are also other responsibilities to keep in mind during our celebration times. It is important to remember that if you are hosting a large celebration that you keep in mind your neighbours — keep the noise down.
It is important to remember that there are residents who might have to work the evening or early morning of New Year’s. Or that there were struggles or challenges in their lives where it might be difficult to celebrate and that they might appreciate the quiet.
Each family has their own traditions that they feel are important to ring in the new year. It is important to be respectful of other traditions and other cultures.
For those residents who want a more colourful explosion to their celebrations, keep in mind that firecrackers are unsafe to light in residential areas. Find a safe and secluded spot for these celebrations, and make sure that all firecrackers are lit by someone with the knowledge and the responsibility.
There are many larger communities who televise their fireworks, and there are chances to enjoy those moments with friends and family. It is also nice when you can go to a live firework display. But just remember that when you partake in this tradition that you are respectful of the parking availability. Ensure that everyone can enjoy in the celebration.
The new year is a time of renewal for many people. Some people take this time to resolve to improve their lives in one way or another. Resolutions can be a great way to improve one’s life as long as they are made in a respectful manner. Make sure they are something that you can achieve. Or if you need help, to ask someone in your life who can provide that support.
