Thanksgiving is a festive time of year. We enjoy a hearty meal with loved ones, have a little discourse and follow up the feast with football. Thanksgiving isn’t always just merriment, though.
Mistakes – and not just those made in the kitchen – can put a damper on the festivities for everyone involved.
Don’t drink and drive
Obviously, you should not drink and drive at any point in time during the year, but it helps to have a reminder during the holiday season. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that alcohol is the cause of 28 percent of driver deaths each year. Don’t be a statistic, and don’t cause injury or death to someone else: if you’re going to have a little holiday “cheer” with your meal, then have a sober driver, take a cab, take public transit or use a ride-sharing service.
Never serve alcohol to minors
It’s a bad idea for many reasons, not the least of which is the fact that, if a minor who has been drinking causes an accident, you could find yourself on the wrong end of a lawsuit. This is because of something called “social host liability.”
Protect your pets from holiday stress to prevent bites
Even the most laid-back pets can bite when sufficiently provoked. Keep your pets away from unfamiliar family members, particularly children, if you feel they are getting stressed. Giving your pets their own space, away from the hustle and bustle, can keep your Thanksgiving from ending with a trip to the emergency room because a stressed-out dog bit little Susie.
Put away your winterizing tools
Yes, winter comes early to the Allentown area. That being said, your loved ones don’t need to risk injury because you left ladders, shovels and more laying around. Put your tools away; your pre-winter chores will still be there after your family has gone home. This can prevent slips, falls and other injuries.
