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Stay Safe During the Holiday Season:

Tips to Avoid Distractions and Hazards

by Michelle Avola-Brown, Executive Director,
Naples Pathways Coalition
he holiday season is a time brimming with Never take the risk of driving impaired. Drunk driving endangers
joy, family gatherings, and the enchanting everyone on the road and has severe legal and personal consequences.
T allure of festive decorations. However, (Did you know, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety
amidst the hustle and bustle, increased travel, and Administration (NHTSA), texting while driving is six times more
distractions like phones and alcohol, it's crucial dangerous than driving under the influence of alcohol. Either activity is
to stay vigilant and mindful of potential dangers. dangerous when driving is involved!)
Below are key safety tips to help you navigate Handle Holiday Stress to Stay Focused
the season safely, ensuring you can fully The hustle and bustle of the season can lead to mental overload,
embrace the joy of the season. making it harder to stay focused while driving or performing other
Stay Focused on the Road: Avoid Phone and Touchscreen Distractions tasks. Stress from shopping, hosting, or traveling can leave people
The holiday season means even more crowded roads and longer driving mentally and physically distracted without even realizing it.
times. Unfortunately, distractions caused by phones and in vehicle Get Enough Sleep: Fatigue can impair judgment and reaction
touchscreens increase the likelihood of accidents. times. Rest well before traveling or attending events.
Limit Phone Use: Use hands free options only when necessary, and Take Breaks: When driving long distances, stop every couple of
avoid texting while driving. Set your GPS and playlist before starting hours to stretch and refocus.
your trip. Manage Holiday Tasks Wisely: Create to-do lists and set realistic
Minimize Touchscreen Interaction: Many modern vehicles rely expectations to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Also, avoid using your
on touchscreens for navigation, the audio system, vehicle settings, or phone while shopping or cooking to prevent accidents.
climate control. Use voice commands to avoid looking away from the Pedestrian Safety: Keep an Eye Out During Crowded Events
road or change the settings at red lights. Whether shopping, attending parades, or visiting holiday markets,
Turn Off Notifications: Activate Do Not Disturb mode while it's easy to get caught up in the festive spirit. However, this also means
driving to reduce the temptation to check your phone. that people are often preoccupied, making pedestrian safety more
Remember, even a quick glance at your phone or screen can divert critical during the holidays. Both drivers and walkers need to stay alert,
your attention from the road for crucial seconds. Staying entirely ensuring everyone can fully enjoy the season.
focused can help you avoid unexpected hazards. Safety Tips for Pedestrians:
Look, Don't Linger: Enjoy Decorations Safely Avoid Walking and Texting: Be mindful of your surroundings
The dazzling lights and elaborate decorations can be mesmerizing, while crossing streets or walking in parking lots and other busy areas.
especially while driving through neighborhoods filled with holiday Wear Bright or Reflective Clothing: This is especially important at
displays. However, spending too much time admiring them can distract night when visibility is reduced.
you from the road. Safety Tips for Drivers:
Pull Over: If you want to enjoy a decorated house or neighborhood Drive Slowly in Crowded Areas: Parking lots and downtown areas
light show, park safely before looking. are packed during the holidays. Drive cautiously and expect unexpected
Assign a Passenger: Let someone else take photos or navigate if pedestrian movement.
you're exploring holiday displays by car. Be Extra Careful Around Schools and Parks: Children are often
Stay Alert for Pedestrians: Many people, especially children, walk distracted by holiday excitement, increasing the chance of crashes.
around to see lights. Be cautious when driving in decorated areas, Final Thoughts: A Safe Season is a Joyful One
especially after dark. The holiday season is meant to be filled with happiness and
Drink Responsibly and Plan Ahead celebration, and keeping safety a priority only enhances the merriment.
Holiday celebrations often involve alcohol, and driving under the By avoiding distractions, planning ahead if drinking, and staying alert
influence remains one of the leading causes of crashes this time of year. to hazards both on the road and off, you can ensure a safe and jubilant
Designate a Driver: Arrange for a sober friend or use ride-sharing holiday season with your loved ones. So, let's spread the joy, stay safe,
services like Uber or Lyft. and make this holiday season truly memorable!
Know Your Limits: It's easy to underestimate how much you've had Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! Stay safe, stay
to drink. If you're unsure, use breathalyzer apps or devices. focused, and make wonderful memories this season.
Offer Non-Alcoholic Options: If you're hosting a party, provide
mocktails or other alcohol-free drinks for guests who need to drive.
For more information, please visit www.NaplesPathways.org and www.HandsFreeFlorida.org
If you have any specific questions, email me at Michelle@NaplesPathways.org

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