By Jessica Ikner
The holiday season is upon us and it’s time to socialize with friends and family while enjoying fellowship, food and drinks. Sheriff Mike Wood along with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office would like you to know that making good decisions is important not only for your own health and well-being, but for all people who might come in contact with you. Hosting a party can be as fun as the event itself, and every responsible host knows that it’s only a great time if the guests get home safely. The following tips from MADD.org will help ensure sensible, moderate and responsible alcohol consumption at your next holiday party.
As guests RSVP, confirm that they have a plan for a safe way home via public transportation, taxi or a non-drinking designated driver.
Plan activities such as party games or door prize drawings that do not involve alcohol. Keeping people engaged during your party results in lower alcohol consumption.
Do not push drinks! Drinking at a party is not mandatory for having a good time.
Provide plenty of food to keep your guests from drinking on an empty stomach.
Avoid too many salty snacks, which tend to make people thirsty and drink more.
Offer non-alcoholic beverages or “mocktails” for non-drinking designated drivers and others who prefer not to drink alcohol.
Never serve alcohol to someone under 21 and never ask anyone under 21 to serve alcohol at parties.
Never let a guest drive home impaired.
Have the number of a taxi service on hand or offer your sofa to guests who need to stay put.
Have fun, but not too much fun. To be a good host, you should stay within your limits in order to make sure your guests are within theirs.
The Leon County Sheriff’s Office wishes you and yours a happy holiday season.
