Party responsibly this holiday season to do your citizen social responsibility (CSR). New Year’s Eve has the highest incidents of road accidents, drunk driving, and underage drinking. There are also numerous incidents of vandalism and molestation. Christmas parties have been stripped of their religious significance and have been converted into an excuse for gluttony and hedonism. This tendency often comes at great personal cost: personal safety and the security of those around.
10 tips to party responsibly
1. Before leaving your accommodation for the day or night, ensure that anything valuable is locked away in a drawer or safe.
2. Never carry large amounts of cash or go out wearing flashy or expensive jewellery.
3. Make sure all the doors are locked, the windows are properly shut and that the alarm is activated if a system is installed.
4. When out at different events and parties, be aware of your surroundings and arrange with your friends to keep an eye on each other and your belongings.
5. If you are approached by a suspicious individual; walk away and report it to the closest security or to the police.
6. Do not accept drinks from strangers and do not leave your drinks unattended. Spiking of drinks is still rife.
7. When it is time to return to your accommodation after a night out, never leave without your friends.
8. Do not accept a lift from a stranger; rather use transport provided by the event organisers.
9. Driving after a few drinks is never an option. Call a cab.
10. Consider appointing a designated driver or someone who agrees not to drink and will be responsible for getting everyone home safely.
9 tips for an eco-friendly house party
If you’re throwing a house party (or helping a friend organize one), would it hurt to be more caring towards the environment? Here are some tips to follow
1. Skip the paper invitations and use an online service.
2. Recycle, compost and go zero waste as much as possible.
3. Plan with your caterer to incorporate local, organic and humane food and drinks.
5. Instead of giving little guest gifts, consider making a donation to a charity instead. This is often more memorable, reduces unnecessary waste and helps support a great cause of your choice.
6. Consider reusable or sustainable decorations. Can you make centrepieces out of reclaimed items? Consider potted plants instead of fresh-cut flowers. Look on Pinterest for inspiration.
7. Skip the paper and plastic and opt for reusable cutlery. If you must use disposables, make sure to select compostable or recyclable products and make detailed signs to help guests dispose of everything in the proper place.
8. Skip the balloons. These often end up in the atmosphere and eventually in the water or ground where they become a hazard to birds and other small animals.
9. Encourage the use of alternative transportation by providing bus and train directions in the invite, or recommending carpooling.
