Serving Intoxicated Customers: What You Really Should Do

Serving Intoxicated Customers: What You Really Should Do

When you work in a bar or restaurant, you wear many hats—mixologist, entertainer, and sometimes, a guardian of safety. Dealing with intoxicated customers is one of those tricky situations that requires both tact and knowledge. So, what should you do when you spot someone who’s had one too many? The answer is clear: serve them water or non-alcoholic beverages.

But Why Water?

You might wonder, "Isn't that just doing the bare minimum?" Well, it turns out that when a customer shows signs of intoxication, offering them non-alcoholic options isn’t just a nice gesture; it’s a responsible move. It can help rehydrate them, slow down alcohol absorption, and mitigate potential health risks. Think of it as a reset button for their evening. Everyone deserves a second chance at enjoying their night out!

A Closer Look at the Alternatives

Let’s break down the alternatives you might be tempted to offer:

1. Serving Water or Non-Alcoholic Beverages - This is your gold star option. It promotes responsible drinking and helps maintain a safe environment.
2. Offering a Stronger Drink - Wait, what? No way! This approach is like throwing gasoline on a fire. It’s reckless and could lead to serious trouble.
3. Just Serving Food - While food can help absorb some alcohol, it doesn’t cut it alone. Sure, it’s better than nothing, but it doesn’t slow down intoxication like hydration does.
4. Asking Them to Pay Their Tab - You might think, "This will surely make them sober up and leave safely!" Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. This could lead to them driving when they shouldn’t—definitely not worth the risk!

Aligning with Safe Practices

Serving water or non-alcoholic beverages reflects key principles of responsible alcohol service and your ethical duty to protect your patrons. Think of it as having a safe net—not just for the customer, but for everyone around them. Nobody wants the unfortunate event of an accident ruining an otherwise great night.

In Washington, following these guidelines not only shows that you care about your customers’ well-being but also keeps you in line with state laws concerning alcohol service. It’s a win-win!

Emphasizing Responsibility

Here's the thing: as bartenders and servers, we have a unique role in shaping our customers' experiences. Beyond mixing cocktails and serving drinks, we can foster a safe environment where everyone can have fun without regretting their choices the next day.

Maybe you’re just starting in the service industry, or perhaps you’re a seasoned pro—either way, keeping your patrons safe is paramount. It’s not just about following the law; it’s about making sure people leave your establishment with smiles, not regrets. So next time you notice a customer who’s slightly off-kilter, remember that serving them water or non-alcoholic beverages is not only wise but a genuine act of care.

In conclusion, let’s toast to responsible service! Here’s to serving up hydration, safety, and a fun night out—because that’s what we’re all after, right? Cheers!