Many Americans throughout the country are enjoying the holiday season and in some cases that might include the consumption of alcohol. While there is nothing wrong with enjoying good times with friends and family there are precautions that you must take to avoid accidents or injury during this time of year when people are more inclined to over imbibe. Health experts remind consumers that special care is needed whenever alcohol enters the scene this season.

Accidents, injuries or even death can be the result of drinking too much, making it a very serious problem when people are celebrating over the holidays. While it is common knowledge that drinking and driving is not only dangerous but against the law, many people do not understand there are serious risks associated with drinking and walking. Basically anytime you indulge in too much alcohol you risk hurting yourself and others. This is due to the fact that alcohol impairs your ability to think, reason and complete the simplest of tasks.

It has been reported that more pedestrians risk injury or death on New Year’s Day versus any other day of the year. Of the 410 pedestrians killed on New Year’s Day between 1986 and 2002 over half of those individuals had high levels of alcohol in their blood stream. Although New Year’s day is especially dangerous pedestrians are fatally injured through out the year. In 2007, thirty-seven percent of fatally injured pedestrians age 16 and older had blood alcohol concentrations over the legal limit in most states of 0.08.

Accidents due to drinking and walking are not the only alcohol related problems that occur during the holiday season. There is an increased number of drinking and driving accidents, domestic altercations and other violent acts that are a direct result of people drinking too much. While it is impossible to control the actions of others, you can increase your chances of having a safe and happy holiday season by controlling how much alcohol you drink. Consider these other safety tips to ensure your holiday season is one filled with happy memories.

• Designated escort- Having a designated driver is a great way to keep drunk drivers off the roads, however many accidents occur outside of a vehicle. If you are going to drink, consider asking a trusted friend or family member to escort you to parties or other events. Having a person present who is not drinking alcohol can help prevent many accidents or injuries that otherwise would be more likely to occur.

• Be a sober host- If you are throwing a party you have a obligation to see that your guests arrive to their next designation safely. This means you must be able to monitor their drinking and take action if you feel they are unable to drive or even walk to their next location. You can either drive or walk them home or if the party is at your home, allow them to sleep off the effects of too much alcohol before leaving your property.

• Be on the lookout- Just because you are being responsible, that doesn’t mean everyone else is doing the same thing. When driving in areas where bars or clubs are located, be on the lookout for pedestrians who may have had too much to drink. People who are intoxicated have slower reflexes and often act impulsively without realizing what they are doing making it more important for you to use caution while driving in these areas. Also, if you suspect a driver on the road is intoxicated, call 9-1-1 to report the driver. That call could save the life of the driver, other drivers and pedestrians.

The holiday season is one that should be filled with joy and happiness, however situations can turn deadly in an instant due to excessive drinking. Plan a safe holiday season by being prepared, drinking in moderation and never getting behind the wheel of a car after you have consumed alcohol.

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