What to Do When Guests Show Signs of Alcohol Intoxication

Hosting a dinner party or barbecue can be an enjoyable experience, but there is always the risk that guests might become overly intoxicated. As a host, it is important to be aware of whether your guests are showing signs of alcohol intoxication and to take proactive steps to ensure their safety and the well-being of everyone involved. This article will explore various scenarios and provide guidance on how to handle guests who exhibit signs of being intoxicated at your event.

Scenario 1: Guests Arrive Intoxicated

If guests arrive at your house already showing signs of intoxication, it is crucial to address this issue promptly and responsibly. If they have driven to your party, it is your duty to call the police to ensure both the guest’s safety and that of others on the road. In such cases, prioritize public safety and legal compliance.

Call the police immediately if the intoxicated guest is too impaired to drive home safely. Ensure the guest stays in a safe area until law enforcement arrives. Stay with the guest until professional assistance arrives to avoid any further complications.

Scenario 2: Guests Become Intoxicated Due to Over-Serving

As a host, it is essential to keep an eye on the amount of alcohol served to guests. If you have provided too much alcohol and guests become intoxicated as a result, it is your responsibility to ensure their safety. Remove their keys and make alternative arrangements for transportation, such as offering to call a taxi or a ride-sharing service, or arranging for someone who is sober to drive them home. The key is to ensure that they do not put themselves or others in harm’s way.

Remove drink offerings and limit the amount of alcohol served. Maintain communication with guests and offer water or non-alcoholic alternatives. Offer rides to guests who are too intoxicated to drive safely.

Scenario 3: Guests Bring Alcohol Without Your Knowledge

Sometimes, guests may bring their own alcohol to your event, and you might not be aware of this until it is too late. In such cases, it is essential to take swift action to ensure everyone’s safety. As the host, it is important to take the following steps:

Assure yourself that the guests who brought alcohol are aware of the rules of your event. Remove their keys and ensure they are not able to leave and drive under the influence. Offer to keep their alcohol or safely store it. Have a long conversation about expectations and the importance of responsible behavior.

Host Responsibility and Best Practices

Being a responsible host means being proactive about your guests’ well-being. Here are some best practices for hosting events:

Maintain ongoing communication with your guests to ensure they are comfortable and safe. Provide clear rules and guidelines for the event, especially regarding the consumption of alcohol. Offer non-alcoholic beverages and water to keep guests hydrated. Keep an eye on guests who show signs of intoxication and intervene if necessary. Ensure there are no unsafe behaviors or risks at your event.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a safe and enjoyable environment for all guests. By being aware of and acting upon signs of alcohol intoxication, you can help ensure that everyone has a good time and leaves the event without any negative consequences.