If you're having a party in your home - with YOU as the bartender, here are some party safety tips: · Don't serve alcohol to someone under the legal drinking age.
Check identification; don't allow the serving of alcohol to or consumption of alcohol by those without proper identification.
· Keep the number of guests at a manageable number; avoid violations of occupancy limits.
Don't allow uninvited guests to "crash" the party.
· Don't let guests mix their own drinks.
Choose a reliable bartender who will help keep track of the size and number of drinks guests consume.
· Remember that beer can be just as intoxicating as hard liquor.
A 12-ounce can of beer, a five-ounce glass of wine, and a 12-ounce wine cooler contain the same amount of alcohol and the same intoxication potential as an ounce-and -a-half of liquor.
· Prepare plenty of foods so guests will not drink on empty stomachs.
Avoid salty foods, which make people thirsty and drink more.
· Monitor outside activities.
Don't allow guests to carry open containers of alcohol in public places.
Don't allow guests to park their vehicles illegally.
· Be a good neighbor.
Keep music, people-noise and trash/litter levels at a minimum.
Clean outside litter immediately after the party.
· Ask boisterous or rude guests to leave.
One such guest can ruin the party for others.
· Offer a variety of non-alcoholic beverages for the designated driver and/or for those who prefer not to drink.
· Do not push drinks! Drinking at a party is not mandatory for having a good time.
· Close the "bar" 90 minutes before the party ends and serve non-alcoholic drinks or foods and coffee.
Remember, though, only time sobers who are intoxicated.
· Politely, but firmly, tell intoxicated guests that you cannot let them drive home because you care.
Arrange for designated drivers to taxi party-goers to their destination.
· Become familiar with signs of alcohol poisoning and treatment.
· Cooperate with police.
They are usually there because someone has complained.
A spirit of cooperation will help in reducing the need for enforcement actions.
For those of you who are thinking of bartending as a profession, here are a couple of tips for you.