Keeping Drunk Drivers Off the Road: A Guide to Safe Intervention

When it comes to serving alcohol, one of the most challenging and crucial responsibilities is ensuring that intoxicated customers don’t get behind the wheel. So, what do you do when that one regular or an enthusiastic patron insists on driving after a few too many? The answer isn’t as straightforward as it seems. It’s crucial to have a solid strategy for these situations, and knowing the right and wrong ways to handle them can be a lifesaver—literally!

Now let’s consider a scenario: A customer at your bar is clearly intoxicated and insists they can drive home. What’s your first instinct? You might feel a pang of anxiety—I've been there. The most effective response isn’t just about making the customer feel good; it’s about prioritizing everyone’s safety.

The Right Move: Offering to Call a Taxi

By offering to call a taxi for the customer and documenting the incident (Option A), you’re taking a proactive approach that benefits everyone involved— the customer, your business, and the broader community. It’s like being the designated driver, only you're doing it from behind the bar!

You might think, "But is that really my job?" Well, absolutely! As someone working in the alcohol service industry, you have a legal and ethical obligation to look out for the well-being of your patrons. Calling a cab isn’t just polite; it’s a responsible action that helps to prevent drunk driving.

What Not to Do

Letting them drive without intervention (Option B) might feel easier in the moment—after all, it’s a lot less confrontational, right? Wrong! It’s extremely irresponsible. You wouldn't throw a life jacket to someone in the middle of a stormy sea and say, "Good luck!" It's the same concept when it comes to intoxicated customers.

Now, forcefully taking their car keys (Option C) is another pitfall to avoid. This could escalate into a tense and confrontational situation, which is just not worth it. Plus, it could put your own safety at risk. We’ve all seen conflicts escalate, and the last thing you want is to end up in a shouting match or worse, an altercation.

And let’s not kid ourselves—encouraging them to drink more water and wait (Option D) doesn’t address the core issue. It may even lull them into a false sense of security, which isn't fair to anyone. Sure, hydration is great, but it doesn’t negate the effects of alcohol.

Documenting Incidents: Protecting Everyone

One of the most critical aspects of this whole situation is documentation. Whether you’re working at a bustling bar downtown or a cozy neighborhood pub, keeping a record of incidents where you had to intervene can protect your business down the line. You never know when a situation might be questioned, and having a paper trail can save your skin.

You might think, “Oh, I’ll remember the conversation.” But trust me—when you're wrapped up in the rush of a busy shift, those details can slip away faster than you can say “I’ll have another!”

The Bigger Picture: Being a Responsible Server

Ultimately, handling an intoxicated customer isn't just about you playing nice; it's about fostering a culture of safety and responsibility. Just think about it—if every server commits to this mindset, we’re actively contributing to safer communities.

When you intervene with care and assertiveness, you not only protect individuals but also help ensure that your place of employment remains a responsible venue. Customers appreciate it too! The more you show that you're looking out for them, the more likely they are to return.

So here’s the thing: there’s no joy in seeing someone make a potentially dangerous choice. Your role as an alcohol server not only impacts immediate situations but also shapes attitudes about drinking and driving for the greater community. Keep this in mind during your MAST training, and you’ll be equipped with the confidence and knowledge to handle tough situations effectively.

So the next time an intoxicated customer states they’re going to drive, remember this: your priority is safety—this isn’t just about following the rules; it’s about caring enough to intervene.