6 Mistakes that Will Increase Your Safety Risk this New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve - it’s one of the most exciting nights of the year, but also one with serious safety risks. 5 common New Year’s Eve mistakes - and how to avoid them: 

1. Not designating a sober driver
   
   Cabs are going to be in high demand in the hours after the ball drops. What would you do if you couldn’t flag down a taxi? Would you have anywhere to go? If you designate a sober driver, you’ll have a safe, dependable ride planned.
   
   
2. Taking an eye off your drink - even for a moment
   
   Bars and parties are going to be loud and crowded. The sad truth is that we do have to worry about someone tampering with our drink amid the chaos. Keep your eye on your drink. If you have to use the restroom, leave your drink under the supervision of a trusted friend - or even better, simply discard your drink and buy a new one later.
    
3. Losing total awareness of your surroundings
   
   Criminals look for people they can take unawares. By showing those around you that you have your wits about you, you present yourself as a ‘hard’ - and therefore less desirable - target. So, how can you stay alert? Don’t drink more than you can handle, drink caffeine if you start to get sleepy, and keep one eye on your surroundings at all times. 
   
   
4. Taking off alone
   
   If you’ve heard it once, you’ve heard it a thousand times: There’s safety in numbers, and the buddy system works. Travel in groups, and have a sober friend or family member pick you up from a bar or party if you leave before anyone else - but don’t leave any friend to fend for themselves. 
   
   
5. Partying on an empty stomach
   
   Alcohol will affect you much more severely if you don’t have any food in your stomach. Eat a heavy meal before you drink! 
   
   
6. Forgetting to plan for 'just in case'
   
   While there are plenty of things you can do to reduce your risk of being attacked or taken advantage of, the fact remains that something bad can happen. Have a Personal Alarm with Key Ring - available at your Sears Hometown & Outlet Stores location - on hand. You can sound the device in case someone starts to make you feel unsafe or uncomfortable. The 110 dB alarm will attract witnesses and potentially scare off an attacker.