Plan ahead during party season

  • Published
  • By 60th Air Mobility Wing
  • Safety Office
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  There are many parties during this time of the year: in offices, with family or seeing old friends, just to name a few.

But there are things for you to keep in mind while enjoying your holiday season, especially if you plan on hosting a party.

Always remember: Safety first. The best party is a safe one. We can all agree on that.

As such, hosts should take every precaution to make sure their guests remain safe. This includes inviting designated drivers to the party, calling taxis for people and possibly even taking the keys away from some of their friends. Of the six fatal mishaps during last year's holiday season, two involved alcohol and one of those killed two Airmen.

Research from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows a dramatic increase in alcohol-related car crashes and fatalities during the holidays, yet only 44 percent of people say the number of adults drinking alcoholic beverages is greater at holiday parties than any other time throughout the year. The discrepancy between perception and reality is a real cause of concern. You can make a difference.

For those hosting or attending holiday parties this year, here are some key things to prevent dangerous binge alcohol use and impaired driving:

· Avoid making alcohol the main focus of social events. Enjoy holiday parties through music, dancing, games, food and lively conversation.

· Be sure to offer plenty of nonalcoholic choices such as sparkling water, fancy juice, soft drinks and bottled drinking water.

· Stop serving drinks at least one hour before the end of the event. Instead, serve coffee, nonalcoholic beverages and desserts at that time.

· Avoid salty foods, which are known to encourage people to drink more.

· Serve high protein and carbohydrate foods, such as cheese and meats, which can help to slow the effects of alcohol.

· Recruit designated drivers ahead of time to make sure that everyone has a safe ride home.

· Be prepared to offer or use other transportation such as cabs or "safe ride" programs in your area. Keep the phone numbers of local cab services on hand for guests.