Don’t Be that Person: Spotting Intoxication in Patrons and Your Best Response

Picture this: You’re the star bartender at a bustling California bar, juggling drink orders and brightening patrons’ moods. But wait – you notice a familiar face, slumped over their drink, testing the waters of drunkenness. What now? You’re not just there to serve; you’ve got a responsibility.

The Dilemma: To Serve or Not to Serve?

So, when you suspect a patron is intoxicated, what’s the right move? Here’s the scoop: ignoring the situation and just continuing to pour drinks is downright irresponsible, not to mention illegal. It’s like driving with your eyes shut—risky for everyone involved!

Instead, the smartest choice on the menu is simple: Offer non-alcoholic beverages and assess their condition. Now, this might not seem like a big deal, but trust me, it shows you’re taking the responsible route. And when it comes to beverage service, responsibility can't be stressed enough. You’re protecting the patron, but also everyone else who enjoys your establishment.

Why Non-Alcoholic Options Matter

By providing non-alcoholic options, you’re not just offering a drink; you’re giving that patron a chance to hydrate and dull the effects of alcohol. Different drinks like soda, sparkling water with lime, or even some fun mocktails can work wonders. Picture it: a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage could be just what they need!

Plus, serving them something non-alcoholic allows you to keep a closer eye on how they’re behaving without the immediate pressure of more alcohol being consumed. This gives you a better chance to assess their level of intoxication, which benefits everybody—yes, even that patron struggling to stay upright near the bar!

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Now, let’s talk about some of those other options:

• Ignoring the Situation (A): This isn’t just a poor choice; it’s illegal in California. You don’t want to get caught in this web—overserving can lead to devastating results.
• Encourage Them to Keep Drinking Water (C): While hydration is important. Just pushing water isn’t effectively addressing the actual problem, is it? It might seem helpful, but it doesn't fully tackle the behavior you’re witnessing.
• Asking Them to Leave Immediately (D): This one can go south quickly. You risk escalating things unnecessarily. Imagine how that could ruin their experience and potentially spark conflict!

Keeping Your Cool and Common Sense

Here’s the thing: by following the best practice of offering non-alcoholic drinks, you maintain a calm environment and approach the issue with care. Customers appreciate it when you take a thoughtful approach to their well-being, and it reflects beautifully on your establishment! Everyone wins, right?

In short, responsibility in alcohol service isn’t just about following the law. It’s about creating a space where everyone can enjoy their time safely without the fear of mishaps or drama.

So next time you suspect a patron has had one too many, take a moment to remember your options—and please, offer that non-alcoholic option first. It might just be the best drink you pour that night!