What to Do When Someone Is Drinking Too Much?

What should a server do if they witness someone attempting to drink excessively?

• A. Ignore the behavior and allow them to continue
• B. Engage with the person and assess their situation
• C. Serve them more drinks to encourage socializing
• D. Report them to local authorities immediately

Answer: (B)

Engaging with the person and assessing their situation is the most appropriate response when a server witnesses someone attempting to drink excessively. This proactive approach allows the server to evaluate the individual's behavior and wellbeing, ensuring their safety and that of others around them. By having a conversation, the server can gauge whether the person is in need of support or if they are capable of making responsible choices. This option aligns with responsible beverage service practices, which prioritize the health and safety of customers. Engaging with the individual provides an opportunity to intervene before the situation can escalate into more serious issues, such as alcohol poisoning or disruptive behavior. In contrast, ignoring the behavior would fail to address the potential risks involved, while serving more drinks would be irresponsible and contrary to the duties of a server. Reporting to local authorities without first attempting to assess the situation may not be necessary unless the person's actions pose an immediate danger to themselves or others.

What to Do When Someone Is Drinking Too Much?

Engaging in the service industry, especially in British Columbia, comes with unique challenges and responsibilities. One of those challenges? Knowing what to do if you witness someone who’s gone a bit overboard with their drinking. You know what? It’s not just about pouring drinks and cashing out; it's about ensuring everyone has a good time and stays safe.

A Friendly Conversation Goes a Long Way

So, what should a server do if they see someone trying to chug down just one more drink? The right answer, and the one that aligns with responsible beverage service practices, is to engage with the person and assess their situation. This proactive approach isn’t just about being a good server; it’s about looking out for the well-being of customers.

Imagine this scenario: You notice a customer who was cheerful just a little while ago, now slumped over the bar. Instead of ignoring the behavior or pouring them another drink, a simple chat can make all the difference.

"Hey there, how are you feeling? Want to grab some water instead?"

This kind of engagement allows you to evaluate their state of mind and their capacity to continue drinking.

Why Engaging Matters

By having that conversation, you get to gauge whether they’re still capable of making responsible choices or if they might need a little support (or a glass of water!). After all, it's your job to serve drinks responsibly, not just hand them over like it's a game of catch.

If you ignore the situation, you’re not just turning a blind eye—you're potentially inviting disaster. People can become ill from too much drinking, or worse, they might become a danger to themselves or others. And let’s be real, nobody wants that. It’s like letting a toddler run wild in a candy store—chaos is bound to ensue.

What About Reporting?

Now, you might think, "Should I call the cops?" Well, hold your horses! Reporting them to local authorities without first assessing the situation may be unnecessary. There’s a fine line between keeping everyone safe and escalating a situation that can be handled with a conversation.

Unless someone looks like they’re in real danger—say, they’re about to fall off their bar stool or are making poor choices—it's wise to first try and handle things within the venue.

To Encourage or Not to Encourage?

Let’s not forget option C: Serving them more drinks to encourage socializing. Now, if that doesn't sound like a recipe for a night gone wrong, I don't know what does! As a responsible server, your role isn’t to help customers dent their wallets with unnecessary drinks. It’s about helping them have a good—and safe—time. When people are having fun, it’s not hard to engage without pouring more booze down their throats.

In Closing

Ultimately, the conversation is key. Engaging with someone who might be drinking excessively and assessing their needs not only reflects responsible service but could also prevent potential issues later. Nobody wants a scene, especially not in front of other guests. So, remember:

• Engage with your patrons.

• Assess their situation.

• Act responsibly.

Being the hero of the night doesn’t always involve a cape; sometimes, all it takes is a sincere conversation and a thoughtful approach. After all, isn’t responsible service just another way of looking out for one another?