Smart Celebrating Can Keep the Holiday a Fun Time
On the fifth of May, we celebrate Mexican heritage, culture, and pride with large Cinco de Mayo celebrations all across the United States. The holiday traces its roots back to an 1862 battle in which the Mexican army defeated a French invading force, but surprisingly celebrations are much larger in the United States than in Mexico itself.
Cinco de Mayo is now a large celebration that involves margaritas, Mexican foods, and late-night events. Like all celebrations where you have fun with friends and family in this manner, People’s Trust wants you to stay safe and keep other revelers safe on the roads.
Please Party Responsibly
With Cinco de Mayo being a large drinking holiday, please always designate a driver or take a taxi to and from your event. People’s Trust also recommends these other great party tips to keep your celebration happy, fun and free of injury:
- Don’t leave any valuables in parked cars, especially if you plan on taking a cab home.
- Always be aware of emergency exits and well-lit meeting places in the event of an emergency.
- Ask what’s in your drink. Many drink specials will include high-proof alcohol so you’ll need to reduce your consumption accordingly.
- Take your time returning home. Not everyone parties smart, so stay alert on the drive home or if you’re walking back to your destination.
House Party Recommendations
If you’re having guests over for Cinco de Mayo, consider these tips to keep your home and your friends safe:
- Make it invitation only and let people know it is an exclusive party. Stick with friends who will obey this rule and your other rules are likely to be followed.
- Lock up your valuables so they can’t be damaged or stolen.
- Have children or pets stay away from the party area or with other family members if possible. This helps you keep them safe.
- Never serve alcohol to minors. If possible, don’t invite minors to your party.
- Close down your drink station 90 minutes before people plan on leaving.
- Call cabs for anyone that is inebriated. Buzzed driving is drunk driving.
- Keep your home well-lit to avoid any trips or falls.
- Make sure your first aid kit and fire extinguishers are easy to access.
- Don’t let food sit out. Any cold foods that get warm during the party should be thrown out.
- Clean up as you go. It helps keep your party safe and reduces the amount of work you have to do once the party ends. Picking up periodically also encourages others to help keep things clean.
Hosts and homeowners can be liable for any harm that comes to party guests on their property. Wherever you plan to party, make sure to decide how you’re arriving and heading home before you go.