Do you have what it takes to host a responsible party this summer?

 

NEWMARKET – Firing up the barbeque, kicking back on the lounge chair and enjoying a cold drink on a hot, humid day are just some of the anticipated rituals of summer.  Warm weather often brings family and friends together to enjoy food and drink. For many, alcohol is a part of these social gatherings. In the backyard, at the cottage, in your home, or at a rented venue, if you’re hosting a party and alcohol is part of the occasion, there are some tips for ensuring a safe and memorable time.

 

While impaired driving remains an important safety issue, responsible party hosting also means being aware of and minimizing other risks such as injuries and conflicts associated with alcohol. The safety of your guests and others is a priority.

 

For your next event, plan ahead and consider the following:
• When alcohol is involved, don't plan physical activities, like swimming, water skiing, sports or other tasks that require physical coordination. People are more prone to injury if they are impaired.  Serve alcohol after the activities are over
• Make the surroundings safer; for example, remove trip hazards and ensure good lighting
• Provide low-alcohol and alcohol-free beverages like a non-alcoholic punch
• Serve healthier choice foods and snacks with alcohol.  Avoid serving salty, sweet or greasy foods that can make guests thirsty
• Serve drinks yourself or designate a Smart Serve bartender instead of having an open bar, as guests usually drink more when they serve themselves. Avoid serving doubles and keep a shot glass or jigger next to the bottles to help monitor the amount of alcohol being served
• Have a plan to deal with any guest who drinks too much
• Stop serving alcoholic beverages at least an hour before the party is over.  Remember that drinking coffee or large amounts of liquids has no effect making someone sober
• Be prepared for overnight guests to prevent impaired people from driving home
• Arrange a safe journey home.  Promote the use of designated drivers and keep cash and telephone numbers on hand for taxis. Be prepared to take away car keys. Remember that walking, bicycling and boating while impaired also carries risks
• Don't drink too much yourself. As the host, you can avoid potential problems when you can think more clearly and act more quickly

 

For more information on safe party hosting or any other health-related questions, contact York Region Health Services Health Connection at 1-800-361-5653 or www.york.ca

 

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Media Contact: Jennifer Mitchell-Emmerson, York Region Health Services
 Phone:  (905) 830-4444, ext. 4016 or After-hours Pager (905) 830-3302
 Email: jennifer.mitchellemmerson@york.ca