Tips for a safe New Year’s Eve

Hamilton County, TN (WDEF) – The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office wants you to have a fun, but safe New Year’s holiday.

Here’s some tips from them on how to keep it that way.

-Do not drink and drive. If you will be celebrating and feel you may drink more than you should, please make sure to have a designated driver or the number to a taxi cab company.

-For those with children, please make sure to keep all fireworks and matches in a safe, restricted location away from “little” hands. Never leave small children unattended with fireworks or sparklers. Avoid allowing children to wave sprinklers near other children. Always maintain a safe distance.

-Follow manufacturer warning labels on all fireworks. Do not hold fireworks after they have been lit.

-Please use fireworks correctly and do not aim fireworks near crowds, homes, or businesses. If you are going to use fireworks, please remember to have a water source and/or a fire extinguisher available should a fire occur.

-Always make sure you decorate appropriately and avoid decorating areas where campfires or fireworks will be present.

-Firearms are not a suitable or appropriate alternative for fireworks. “Remember, what goes up, must come down…”

-If you have pets, especially dogs, please remember to keep them secured in a quiet part of your house/apartment so as to prevent unnecessary nervousness or discomfort. It may also help to leave your radio or TV on so as to drown out unnecessary noise.

-For those of you who will be traveling or boating, please remember to obey all traffic/waterway laws and do not operate a car or boat under the influence.

-If you or your family should note any unusual or suspicious activity, please contact your local law enforcement agency.