Happy New Year
This holiday season is unlike any other, to cap off a year unlike any other. Throughout this season, and as we move into a new (and hopefully better) year, we wish you moments of peace amid the difficulties, the warmth of memories from holidays past, and wonderful glimpses of the joy that still lives under the surface.
If you are celebrating New Years Eve away from your home or will be traveling at all, here are some ideas to keep you safe.
- Plan your travel options ahead of time, arranging for a designated driver, a hotel stay, shuttle/limo service, public transportation and extra “Plan B” options before your night out.
- Use public transportation or cabs both to and from your destination so you can avoid leaving your car in a strange place overnight.
- If you must leave your car, park in a populated, well-lit area. Roll up windows, lock all doors and ensure all valuables are left at home or secured out of sight.
- Double check the weather before heading out – some parts of the province are still dealing with the after effects of last week’s storm.
If you are staying in:
- Make sure your smoke alarms are working and have fresh batteries
- Light fireworks one at a time, then move back away from them. Never attempt to re-light a firework that did not go off the first time and keep a bucket of water at the ready.
- The best way to keep pets safe over New Years is to keep them indoors and comfortable. If they need to go out, make sure fences and gates are secure and that your pet has a current ID tag and that all microchip information is up to date – just in case!
New Years Day is also the most hazardous day of the year for pedestrians. Not only are drivers potentially impaired, but those on foot can also ignore traffic lights or crosswalks. If you are walking, make sure to stay on pedestrian paths and observe traffic laws; only cross at crosswalks and try to remain in well-lit areas. If you are driving, take extra care to consider those on foot.
While normal still seems a little out of reach, we take comfort in the knowledge that it will return eventually. Take care of yourself and of your family. Keep those who are isolated top of mind, stay safe, and lend a hand when and where it is safe to do so.
Happy New Year, Everyone
— All of us at Homeservice Club
Happy Holidays – From the Homeservice Club Team!