Tips for the Party Thrower
As a party host, you are responsible for the safety and welfare of your guests. Here are some simple tips to keep your party fun, safe, and friendly:
- Designate a sober host(s) to monitor the event and ensure a safe party.
- Don’t make alcohol the main theme of your party. Plan alcohol-free games and activities.
- Serve non-alcoholic drinks or “mock-tails” for designated drivers and others who prefer not to drink.
- Provide plenty of food to keep your guests from drinking on an empty stomach. Avoid serving salty foods as they tend to make people thirsty causing them to drink more.
- Keep your party legal. Don’t serve alcohol to anyone under the age of 21.
- Be prepared by having taxi phone numbers on hand for those who need a safe ride home.
Tips for the Party Go-er
Here are some simple tips to keep your night out fun and safe:
- Eat a full meal before you go out. Food will slow the absorption rate of alcohol.
- Be well hydrated. Having plenty of water in your system will keep you from feeling thirsty and you will drink more slowly.
- Set a drink limit. If you decide to drink, set a lower-risk limit and stick to it. Let your friends know your plan, and respect their decision to not drink or to drink at a lower-risk limit. And remember, it’s ok to not drink.
- Designate a sober driver!
- Pack money for a cab.
- Never go anywhere alone. Having a trusted friend with you at all times is the best way to discourage people from taking advantage of you.
- Alternate your drinks with every other drink being non-alcoholic. This will help you slow the rate of alcohol consumption.
- Avoid drinking games. When playing drinking games it can be difficult to gage how much alcohol you’re actually consuming.
- Never accept a drink you didn’t pour or didn’t see poured. And never leave your drink unattended. Ever.
- Carry condoms. Alcohol has a way of loosening inhibitions, and one thing can lead to another. An unplanned pregnancy or STI isn’t worth the risk.
- Leave with the friends you came with and be sure your designated driver is sober.
- If all else fails – substitute. If you have tried all of the above and are still having problems, then alcohol might not be a good choice for you.
Updated: April 16, 2024