A Minor Consideration: Minors and Holiday Drinking

The holiday season is here. It is a time of cheer and celebration for all. That means that there will be family and neighborhood get togethers, as well as parties at other venues. It also means that there will be, in many instances alcohol and minors will be present. Which means, it is the duty of all responsible adults to see that alcohol and minors do not mix during these holiday festivities.

Things the Host or Hostess Can Do to Prevent Minors From Drinking.

As the host of the party you are ultimately responsible for what goes on your party. In most states, there are laws that actually state that the host of a party where alcohol is served can be sued if a party goer has an accident. While this pertains to adult party goers I am sure it also includes minors.

It has been suggested that hosts who are serving alcohol beverages check with their insurance company to make sure that they are covered in case of just such an event. Other than that here are some other things you can do to keep the minors at your next party safe.

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  Keep all alcohol beverages in one an area and make that area off limits to all minors

• Make frequent circuits of the party to make sure that all minors are sober and not drinking. And to watch for any alcohol beverages sitting unattended where a minor can easily pick them up. Make sure you collect all these stray beverages and dispose of them properly.

• Hire a bartender. Adding this cost to your party may seem a bit much, but a bartender will make sure that no minor is able to help themselves. They will also cut off any adults who have had too much to drink making it safer for all guests at your party as well as other people on the road after the party ends.

• If a minor is caught drinking call his parents immediately and have them pick him up, if the parents are present insist that they take the minor home immediately. Sending the message that you will not tolerate minors drinking may deter others from trying it.

Things You as a Guest Can Do to Prevent Minors From Drinking

• Never offer a minor a sip of your drink or in any other way encourage to consume any amount of alcohol no matter how small.

• Don’t leave your own drink unattended anywhere a minor can pick it up

• If you see a minor drinking report it to your host or hostess

• If you are invited to a party where you know there will be minors who will be drinking, send your regrets. Remember your presence when you know that minors are drinking is sending them the message that to do so is all right.

Always consider how you would feel if an adult allowed or sanctioned your own minors child’s drinking and something happened to them. It only takes one drink for a party to have deadly results. Don’t let it happen at your party.