During this holiday season, be aware of the effects of alcohol. Drinking too much alcohol clouds your judgment and could lead to dangerous choices. Drinking too much also may make you susceptible to falls, particularly on stairs.

Drinking Alcohol Responsibly

A standard-sized drink is 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine or one shot of hard liquor in a mixed drink. Make sure you are aware of this when considering how much you drink.

The safest course of action is not to drink alcohol. If you choose to drink, be responsible:

• Set a safe limit for yourself before you start drinking.
• Choose a designated driver – either someone who doesn’t drink alcohol or someone you can trust to stay sober.
• Give your car keys to someone who won't be drinking. Give him or her permission to keep the keys if you seem incapable of driving.
• Make arrangements in advance for a safe way to get home.
• Don't drink on an empty stomach. Eat something before you start drinking, or eat along with drinking alcohol. This will slow the rate at which alcohol is taken into your body.
• Don't drink when tired or taking medicines.

Throwing a Party

Whoever serves alcohol has some legal responsibility for the actions of those who drink too much, even after they leave. There are many ways to throw a party yet protect yourself and your guests from harm:

• Stay sober. The only way you can act responsibly is to keep a clear head.
• Hire a professional bartender who is trained to recognize intoxicated people and stop them from driving.
• Serve nonalcoholic beverages.
• Offer appealing alternatives to liquor. Make a special nonalcoholic drink.
• Serve food along with liquor.
• Don't let guests mix their own drinks. You lose control of the quantity served.
• Stop serving alcohol one to two hours before the party ends.
• Don't let someone who is drunk get behind the wheel, no matter how much he or she protests.

Source: The StayWell Company LLC