When you host a party, you can take steps to discourage guests from driving home if they’ve had too much to drink. Here are some suggestions:

• Set up “house rules” that make driving home after drinking not acceptable. Tell your guests about these rules before they arrive. Then they can make alternative plans for going home if they plan to drink.
• Offer guests fruit juices, mineral water and soft drinks as alternatives to alcoholic beverages.
• Don’t serve “one for the road.” It’s a good idea to close the bar at least one hour before the party ends. Encourage guests to stay for a while by serving food and tea, coffee or other non-alcoholic beverages
• Encourage guests to take a vehicle for hire, or arrange for a designated driver.
• Be prepared to have some guests stay overnight if necessary. A little inconvenience and embarrassment (theirs, not yours) are far better than risking impaired driving.

You don’t have to stop with just yourself or family and friends. Those who belong to groups or clubs can challenge other members to share a leading role in preventing impaired driving. Many groups and organizations sponsor parties and other social events where alcohol is served. All members can participate in making sure no one drives after drinking. People can take turns not drinking so they may drive others home.