How to Drink Safely at Your Next Celebration

By Brooke L. Sager

Whether itΓÇÖs a friendΓÇÖs birthday party, wedding reception or a company fete, celebratory events often have one thing in common: alcohol. Even for those who donΓÇÖt normally have a problem with high-risk drinking, overdoing it at special occasions is almost accepted today as a societal normΓÇöbut that doesnΓÇÖt mean itΓÇÖs safe.

According to Randy Haveson, M.A., a noted addictions counselor, alcohol educator and author of Party With A Plan, excessive drinking happens when you donΓÇÖt set yourself specific parameters before your first cocktail. ΓÇ£Make a definitive plan at the beginning of the night that includes who youΓÇÖre going out with and where youΓÇÖre heading, then stick to it,ΓÇ¥ suggests Haveson. ΓÇ£DonΓÇÖt just tell yourself to ΓÇÿbe responsibleΓÇÖΓÇöitΓÇÖs too vague a guideline.ΓÇ¥

Try following HavesonΓÇÖs 0-1-2-3 rule for imbibing safely: While ΓÇ£0ΓÇ¥ drinking doesnΓÇÖt have to be a continual lifestyle choice, itΓÇÖs a good option for times youΓÇÖre taking meds, feeling stressed, or have an interview the next day. ΓÇ£1ΓÇ¥ is a reminder to have no more than a single drink (5oz of wine or 12oz of beer) per hour; donΓÇÖt drink more than ΓÇ£2ΓÇ¥ times per week; limit yourself to ΓÇ£3ΓÇ¥ cocktails in that 24-hour period. Says Haveson, ΓÇ£Being able to have fun while sticking to a plan gives you a sense of esteem.ΓÇ¥

If you notice another guest is making high-risk choices that are putting themselves and others in danger, do what you can to keep her safe. With a friend, you can be direct but supportiveΓÇötell her to stop drinking immediately, express your concern for her problem and offer to get her help. If you donΓÇÖt have a close relationship with the person, suggest that he switches to water; if youΓÇÖre at bar, call the manager over for support.

Remember that when youΓÇÖre the hostess, you are legally liable for your guests. Help everyone make good choices at your party and inform them of the nightΓÇÖs three drink rule at the door; if they donΓÇÖt like it, they have the opportunity to leave. If you notice one of your guests is drunk, stop serving the person and call her a cab to ensure she gets home safely.

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