In our Health Alert tonight, if you’re ringing in the New Year tomorrow night, there are potential hazards you should be aware of. Our Chief Health Editor Dr. Partha Nandi joins us now with tips on how to avoid the unexpected before any festivities get started.
Dr. Nandi: Whether you’re celebrating at home or heading out to a party, safety should always be a priority. Because, unfortunately, the unexpected can happen at any time. Take, for example, popping the cork on a champagne bottle. This can easily lead to an eye injury. And that’s because the pressure inside the bottle can launch the cork up to 50 miles an hour, leaving you very little time to react. So it’s best that you hold the bottle at a 45 degree angle and point it away from your face. Also be sure that no one is in the way of the cork’s launching path. Or someone’s night could end with a trip to the ER.
Question: A lot of folks will be celebrating with alcohol, what do we need to be aware of?
It’s important that you keep track of how much alcohol you drink along with how much water you consume. What many people don’t realize is that alcohol is a diuretic and can lead to dehydration. But if you drink enough water, you’ll stay hydrated and your risk of suffering a cold-related complication like frostbite or hypothermia is reduced. And that’s especially important to know if any of your festivities are taking place outdoors. Also, be sure to know your limits and not drink too much. Or you might end up making poor choices which can lead to falls and injuries.
Question: Speaking of poor choices, New Year’s is known for road tragedies, any tips about road safety?
You’re absolutely right. Experts at the National Safety Council estimate that over the New Year more than 400 people will die. And far too many will be alcohol-impaired crashes. So if you’re drinking, please have a designated driver or use an uber or taxi service. Now 2019 is about to come to a close, so I’d like to wish you all a safe and fun New Year’s Eve. And I’ll see you in 2020!
