Identify the Danger Signs and Plot an Escape Route

As summer approaches many people begin to think about barbeques and parties. However, they are not thinking about the danger that could be involved when people get together and do what naturally comes with this summer pastime… the consumption of alcohol. The most important tip we can offer for party safety is to be aware of the danger signs and plot an escape route.

If you have to drink, remember, alcohol can affect your ability to make decisions. Manage how much you consume and look out for your friends. Here are a few safety tips you should familiarize yourself with when going to or throwing your own party.

Going To A Party? Remember these tips!

•Always get your own drink or watch it being poured.
•Don't leave your drink unattended and don't drink or taste anybody else's drink.
•Don't accept drinks from anyone else.
•Dispose of your drink if you think it tastes odd. If you just leave it, someone else may drink it.
•Drugs used to spike drinks can be colorless, tasteless and odorless, so you might not realize that something has been added to your drink.
•If your friend’s behavior is out of character, or they seem too "out of it" for what they've had, their drink might have been spiked.
•Watch out for your friends and make sure they are making safe decisions.
•If your friend needs to sober up check to see if they are alone, or is someone with them and are they safe.
•Encourage people who are drunk to drink water, which will help lessen the concentration of the alcohol in their system or eat something. Keep an eye on them and do not let them leave the party with their car keys.
•If you are going home with someone you do not know too well, introduce them to your friends before you leave.

Throwing A Party? Keep Your Guests Safe!

•Create a safe atmosphere. If you know that someone is harassing or intimidating someone else, then do something about it by letting them know you are watching, ask the person to stop or leave, find a safe place for the victim and do not be afraid to call 911.
•Know whom you have invited to the party and plan what you will do if someone crashes it.
•Provide food and drink spacers, such as water, soft drinks, or juice.
•Keep an eye on your guests. Make sure they're safe and having a good time.
•Offer to call a taxi for your guests and make note of the taxi company you’ve called.

Please follow these simple safety tips and enjoy your summer.