Summer is officially here. For many, that means it’s summer barbecue time. While being out of school and taking vacation from work certainly is something to celebrate you need to be careful.
Regardless of where you are on the spectrum, be careful about any alcohol you take in during summer cook outs. Police are more aware of drivers over the summer months – especially over holiday weekends. Here are some other things to keep in mind.
Be aware of teens’ intake of alcohol
When you are going to a cookout, it may become easier for your teens (your children of all ages, really) to access alcohol. After all, half-opened cans of beer may be scattered about, with beer readily available in a cooler. Keep an eye on your teens, and if you suspect they have had anything to drink, no matter how little and how long ago, avoid letting them drive.
Plan ahead if you are hosting
If you are the one hosting a party, think about whether most of your guests are driving or walking. For instance, if the party is a neighborhood one, it is likely that many, if not all, guests are walking there. If your guests will be driving (or even if they will be walking), you may want to approach the alcohol situation strategically, perhaps making beer available only for the first hour. Have phone numbers for taxicab companies handy, and if you are afraid drinking will get out of hand, you can ask your guests to turn in their car keys as they arrive.
If you or someone you love does get charged with DUI this summer, it is imperative to take the charge seriously. A conviction has the potential to adversely affect your job, for example. An attorney can help uphold your rights.