Safe Super Bowl Party Tips

• Always plan ahead.  Secure a reliable designated driver, or make arrangements to take a taxi or public transportation both to and from the party if you plan to drink alcohol.  Truly knowing your limits can be tough because not all alcoholic drinks contain the same amount of alcohol and content may vary greatly with location.  Not having access to your own vehicle will prevent you from making a dangerous decision when your thinking is impaired.  And don’t forget, taking a taxi or a bus is cheaper than getting a DUI.
• Take the keys.  Don’t let a friend risk their future, or the future of a stranger on the road.
• If you are hosting a party, offer non-alcoholic drinks, remind your guests to make arrangements for a designated driver, taxi, or public transportation; and make sure everyone leaves with a sober driver.  Over-serving alcoholic beverages or allowing someone to leave your home intoxicated could lead to legal and/or civil charges.  Serving alcohol to anyone under the legal drinking age of 21 is illegal.
• Don’t forget that over-the-counter, legal and illicit drugs, including marijuana, also impact one’s ability to drive.  Heed warning labels on medication packaging and consult your doctor prior to consuming alcohol while taking medication.
• In the event these preventative measure are ineffective, or if you suspect a driver is under the influence while you are traveling, immediately report the impaired driver.

Adding non-alcoholic drinks to your Superbowl Party menu will keep your event fun, inclusive and safe.  Offering non-alcoholic alternatives allows party hosts to accommodate anyone under the legal drinking age of 21, designated drivers, people in recovery, and those who simply choose not to consume alcohol.

Before heading out to that SuperBowl Party, or greeting guests at your front door, make sure you have the information you need to prevent drunk and drugged driving.  Program taxi cab company numbers into your phone.  Make arrangements for designated drivers.  Make sure events provide non-alcoholic beverage options.  Be prepared to take the keys from someone who is impaired, and remember that legal and illicit drugs impair driving too.

Enjoy the game!

For more information on substance abuse prevention, please call the Substance Abuse Council at (269)968-4699, SAC’s web page at www.drugfreebc.org, or find us on Facebook.