Having a Party? Know what you're in for!
As the host: you can be held responsible:
- for injuries or damages that occur as a result of the alcohol you provide;
- for what happens to guests when they are in your home or on your property;
- for your guests at other functions you organize, like weddings, street parties and company parties;
- for the safety and behaviour of your guests until they're sober, not just until they leave your party or function.
More and more, courts are placing legal responsibility on people who serve alcohol or host events where guests are drinking.
10 Great Tips to Reduce Your Risk
- Don’t plan physical activities, like swimming, skiing, snowmobiling and skating when you serve alcohol. People are more prone to accidents when they've been drinking.
- Have low-alcohol and alcohol-free cocktails and drinks available too. How about a non-alcoholic punch?
- Serve snacks! It is better to eat while drinking than to drink on an empty stomach. Try veggies, cheeses and light dips – they’re great and don’t make your guests thirsty, as salty, sweet or greasy foods do.
- Be prepared for overnight guests. Get those blankets and sleeping bags ready.
- Mix drinks yourself instead of having an open bar. Avoid doubles. Guests usually drink more when they serve themselves.
- Plan to deal with guests who drink too much. Ask someone to be prepared to help you before the party gets rolling.
- Find out how guests will be going home from your party. Be prepared to take away car keys. Know your designated drivers. Have cash and phone numbers ready for taxis.
- Stop serving alcohol a few hours before the party is over. Bring out more alcohol-free drinks and food.
- Plan ahead so that it’s easy to try some of these tips! If a legal problem arises, having tried these tips may help.
- Don’t drink too much yourself! You can stay on top of potential problems better when you can think clearly and act quickly.
For more information contact the Chronic Disease & Injury Prevention Team at the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit.
Source: The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH),
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