State officials urge responsible drinking

VW independent staff and submitted information

As the holiday celebrations continue and New Year’s Eve approaches, families gather, and friends reconnect. The season often times brings with it an increase in alcohol consumption and with that, the Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of Liquor Control (DOLC) and the Ohio Investigative Unit (OIU) are urging adults to drink and serve responsibly.

All people who drink, regardless of the amount, need to be aware that critical decision-making abilities and driving-related skills are already diminished long before a person shows physical signs of intoxication. If you decide to drink this holiday, please do so responsibly.

“Christmas parties and New Year’s Eve celebrations make for some of the busiest nights of the entire year for bars and restaurants,” DOLC Superintendent Jim Canepa said. “It is important for the staff of liquor permit holders to know the rules while remaining vigilant. Their work ensures that Ohioans and their families enjoy themselves, but within reason, so everyone remains safe.”

State officials consistently educate liquor establishments on the dangers of overconsumption and underage drinking. As a reminder for liquor establishments, it is against the law to give away alcohol in connection to your business. Also, patrons cannot pay a flat fee for an “all-you-can-drink” promotion.

“We want everyone enjoying the company of family and friends to have a safe place to celebrate the holidays,” Senior Enforcement Commander Erik Lockhart said. “Liquor permit staff and party hosts have an obligation to ensure their patrons and guests safety. Their safety starts with you.”

Before celebrating, all party hosts or liquor establishments should plan to incorporate these tips to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and most importantly, responsible holiday gathering:

• Don’t serve alcohol to anyone under the age of 21.
• Don’t serve alcohol to anyone who is intoxicated.
• If someone has had too much to drink, don’t let them drive; use a designated driver, rideshare, or taxi service.
• If you see someone tampering with another person’s beverage, get that person out of the situation and call for help immediately.
• If you someone you know needs help, or for more information, contact the Ohio Careline at 1.800.720.9616 or text the Ohio Crisis Text Line (keyword 4HOPE to 741 741).