St. Patrick’s Day Safety Tips

St Patrick’s Day is the annual event that witnesses millions of people around the world celebrating their Irish heritage, the color green, and the chance to have a fun time with friends and family. Whether you choose to have a party at your house or head out to celebrate, People’s Trust wants you and your family to stay safe.

People’s Trust recommends to Party Smart on St. Patrick’s Day with these safety tips:

• Don’t bring valuables to any celebrations. Only bring what is necessary, such as a driver’s license, money, a phone, and shamrock necklaces.
• If you are attending an event with a large crowd such as a St. Patrick’s Day Parade, be aware of your surroundings and pay attention to where you can go for help should you need it.
• If you drive, don’t leave any valuables in your car and try to park in well-lit areas.
• If you plan on drinking, don’t drive.  Designate a driver in advance or prepare to take a cab. 
• Never leave anything you are going to eat or drink unattended.
• Stay hydrated and fed. Don’t drink on an empty stomach and make sure to have some water as you enjoy the night.
• Proceed with extra caution. Even if you party right, others on the roads may not have been responsible. Stay extra vigilant when on the roads, whether you’re driving home or crossing the street.

If you’re having a party at your home, keep these tips in mind:

• Make it invitation only and let people know it is an exclusive party. This keeps guests to people you know and want at your party and it will discourage party crashers.
• Ensure all valuables are locked away so they can’t be damaged, broken, or stolen.
• Keep your pets locked in a bedroom if they get overwhelmed by groups of people.
• If you’re serving alcohol, never give drinks to minors. Close down your bar or drink station around 90 minutes before you expect the party to end and provide guests with the phone number for nearby cabs.
• Ensure your first aid kit is well stocked.
• Keep your rooms well-lit, especially around staircases, steps, and other potential trip hazards.
• Don’t leave food out if it needs to be refrigerated. Use ice bowls to keep things cool when spread out.
• If you see unattended cups, pour them out. This is especially true if children or animals are present at your party.
• Avoid using candles and stick to decorations that are flame retardant. If you allow guests to smoke, ask them to keep it outside and provide large, deep ashtrays.
• If using lighting and sound equipment, tuck cords into crevices between your carpet and baseboards. If they must cross a room, tape down cords with brightly colored tape. Cords running from overhead should be taped to doorframes or the ceiling with electrical tape.
• Clean up frequently. If you notice spills or broken glass, clean it up as soon as you see it. Provide a mat if it’s a rainy day or you have guests coming in and out of doors often.

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 getting home beforehand

This Blog is sponsored by:
People’s Trust Insurance Company