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| SPRINGFIELD - "Many people who don't drink alcohol will find themselves taking a drink while partying during the holidays," said Phil Day, Program Manager of Alcoholism and Drug Services of Baystate Medical Center. Day said that in order to keep your holidays safe while at a party, you should not drink more than one alcoholic beverage an hour, and should not drink at all if you are driving. He reminded party-goers that being "sociable" doesn't mean you have to drink alcohol. "There are plenty of alternatives to alcohol. Order a non-alcoholic beverage or non-alcoholic sparkling champagne, a cola with a twist of lime or even a healthy cranberry juice with a twist of lime," he said. If you do choose to drink while at a party, make sure you eat something beforehand, Day warned. "Alcohol is absorbed into the bloodstream at a much higher rate when you have an empty stomach," he added. Day noted that persons who are on medication should read the directions carefully since mixing alcohol with some drugs can have an undesirable effect. Also, if you are going out to a party with several friends, Day suggested choosing a designated driver who will drink only soft beverages or juices. "In addition to the serious harm you could cause some innocent person and yourself, if you are convicted of driving under the influence, you will likely spend between $2,000 to $5,000 in fines and insurance costs," Day said. Day offers the following tips to persons hosting holiday parties: Serve as a bartender and not leave open bottles around for people to help themselves. Have plenty of snacks and food available. Make non-alcoholic drinks available and encourage their use. Stop serving alcohol at least one hour before your party ends; and serve coffee, tea or other light snacks before your guests leave. Don't let someone drive home who has had too much to drink. "Remember, as party host, you can be held responsible for the actions of one of your guests who might have had too much to drink," said Day. |