Keeping St. Patrick’s Day Safe: Patron & Bartender Safety Tips

St. Patrick’s Day is a festive holiday celebrated with parades, parties, and gatherings at bars and pubs. While the day is filled with fun and revelry, it’s important to prioritize safety for both patrons and bartenders. Here are some tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable St. Patrick’s Day celebration:

For Patrons:

1. Plan Ahead: If you’re going out to celebrate, plan your transportation in advance. Designate a driver, use public transportation, or arrange for a ride-sharing service to ensure a safe trip home.
2. Drink Responsibly: Pace yourself and know your limits. Alternate alcoholic drinks with water, and avoid excessive drinking to prevent alcohol-related incidents.
3. Watch Your Drink: Keep an eye on your drink at all times to prevent tampering. If you need to leave your drink unattended, ask a trusted friend to watch it for you.
4. Stay Hydrated: Alcohol can dehydrate you, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
5. Look Out for Each Other: Stick together with friends and look out for one another. If someone in your group has had too much to drink, help them get home safely.

For Bartenders:

1. Monitor Patrons’ Behavior: Keep an eye on patrons’ behavior and intervene if you notice signs of intoxication. Refuse service to anyone who appears to be intoxicated.
2. Check IDs: Ensure that you check the IDs of all patrons to verify their age before serving alcohol. This helps prevent underage drinking.
3. Limit Drink Specials: Consider limiting the availability of drink specials to prevent excessive drinking. Encourage patrons to drink responsibly.
4. Provide Food Options: Offer a variety of food options, especially those that are hearty and can help slow the absorption of alcohol.
5. Have a Plan for Intoxicated Patrons: Have a plan in place for dealing with intoxicated patrons, such as offering them water, arranging for a ride home, or contacting local authorities if necessary.

St. Patrick’s Day can be a fun and festive holiday, but it’s important to prioritize safety for both patrons and bartenders. By following these tips, you can help ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable celebration.