The holiday season brings joy, celebration, and time spent with the people who matter most. With festive parties, family traditions, and champagne toasts filling the calendar, it’s also a time to be mindful of the choices we make—especially when alcohol is involved. A single safe decision can protect not only your own life, but the lives of everyone sharing the road.

Look Out for Friends and Loved Ones

Holiday gatherings often bring people together who may not see each other often. It’s easy for someone to lose track of how much they’ve had to drink. Keeping an eye out for friends or family members shows you care. If someone seems unsteady or tired, gently encourage them to slow down or help arrange a safe way home. Group chats can be used to coordinate designated drivers, and hosts can keep rideshare apps handy for quick bookings.

Plan a Safe Ride if You’re Drinking

Whether you’re heading to a neighborhood gathering or a workplace celebration, having a transportation plan in place removes any temptation to drive after drinking. Schedule a rideshare ahead of time, use public transit when possible, or coordinate a designated driver within your group. Planning early helps ensure the night ends on a positive note.

Pace Yourself and Know Your Limits

Between holiday punch bowls and champagne toasts, it’s easy to drink more than you realize. Pacing yourself not only helps you stay in control, it allows you to enjoy the celebration more fully. Alternate alcoholic drinks with water, eat regularly, and pay attention to how you’re feeling throughout the night. Your awareness helps keep you and others safe.

If You’re Hosting, Offer Nonalcoholic Options

Hosts set the tone for the evening. When you offer festive mocktails, sparkling waters, or warm holiday beverages, you give guests more opportunities to enjoy the night without overindulging. At the end of the event, check in with guests and help them secure a safe ride home if needed. A little preparation can make a big difference.

The holidays should be filled with warmth, laughter, and connection—not avoidable tragedy. By looking out for one another and making responsible choices, we can protect the spirit of the season and ensure everyone gets home safely. Before your next celebration, make a plan for getting home safely and encourage others to do the same. Your decision can help keep the joy of the holidays alive for everyone.