Do you have a New Year’s Eve horror story? Maybe it didn’t happen to you, but instead was something you observed while you were at a New Year’s Eve party?

Some of these tales of woe are humorous, but others may not be. And chances are, none of them are funny if they happen to occur at a party that you happen to be hosting.

That’s why it’s essential to take as many precautions as possible to ensure that your New Year’s Eve gathering is as safe as possible. Here are some suggestions:

1. Know your intended size and scope of the party and limit your guest list accordingly. If you send out online invitations, make sure that they aren’t distributed to the public or your entire contact list.

1. Educate yourself about local ordinances and laws. (For example, you may have to obtain a noise permit.) Also, know your level of liability if your guests were to get injured at your party or while driving home from it.

1. Notify your neighbors about your party so they won’t get blindsided by the crowd. (Better yet, just invite your neighbors!)

1. Have a parking plan and communicate it to your guests. Make sure they know where parking is illegal around your home so they don’t get their vehicles towed.

1. Clear out rooms, hallways, and other areas of your home as much as you can. You’ll want to maximize the entertainment space for your guests.

1. Using doors and/or signs, close off rooms or areas of your home that you want to remain off-limits to guests.

1. Put away any valuable or breakable items that could get damaged, broken, or stolen during the party.

1. Prominently offer snacks, water, and non-alcoholic beverages to people who do not wish to drink.

1. Encourage designated drivers among your guests, and have someone act as a “sober host” to help you identify people who have overindulged and/or may plan to drive while impaired.

1. Place entry mats at all entrances and exits to your home that will be used by guests.

1. Place floor mats in high-traffic areas like near the food and beverages, in front of sinks, and in bathrooms.

1. If you see a spill, clean it up immediately. Ask your guests to inform you if something gets spilled.

1. If uninvited guests arrive or your party gets out of control, call 911 and ask law enforcement to come by.

1. Make up a list of phone numbers or digital sites which can connect guests with taxis or ride-sharing services. This will discourage them from getting behind the wheel after drinking too much.

1. Know the signs of severe impairment and alcohol poisoning. If a guest is in medical distress, don’t hesitate to call 911.

1. Whatever you do, don’t let an impaired guest drive home. Let them stay the night or be taken home by someone else.

If something bad happens at your New Year’s Eve party, in could very well ruin everybody’s fun. So make sure all of your pre-party preparations are finished so that you and your guests can ring in the new year happily ans safely!

Written by Chris Martin