FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — We’re counting down to the New Year, with the ball ready to drop.
As we get ready to ring in 2026, health experts say the best thing people can do to prepare for any celebrations is to plan ahead.
During last year’s celebrations, the CHP reported 10 fatal crashes and 481 statewide arrests for drunk driving.
A designated driver not only reduces the risk but also keeps people out of the hospital. But if you do plan to drink, health experts want you to do so responsibly.
Dr. Sakshi Joshi is a Family Medicine Physician with Kaiser Permanente in Fresno.
“For general guidelines, we don’t recommend more than two drinks a day for men and no more than one drink a day for women,” said Dr. Joshi. “Make sure you stay very well hydrated. Make sure you’re eating through the evening so you can help slow down the alcohol absorption.”
Alcohol-related injuries are not the only accidents that come through the emergency room. Doctors also see people getting hurt from falls during the New Year. Burn injuries from fireworks are also common.
“We do recommend that you view professional fireworks from a distance, of course,” said Dr. Joshi. “But if you are going to use your own fireworks, we recommend using safe and sane fireworks.”
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission says about 14,700 people were treated in emergency rooms for firework-related injuries last year.
Dr. Sakshi urges people to keep fireworks away from buildings and people, and to protect their eyes and hands. Respiratory illness and viral infections are also top of mind for doctors.
“During this time of the year, we see a lot of the flu, RSV and common colds as well,” said Dr. Joshi. “COVID is still going around.”
Doctors say if you’re going to be around family and friends during the celebrations, make sure you’re up to date with your vaccines. If you’re feeling sick, make sure to stay home.
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