- Implement anti-drunk driving measures, offer non-alcoholic options, and promote responsible drinking campaigns.
- Set clear rules for serving alcohol and hold both staff and customers accountable for over-serving incidents.
- Maintain an up-to-date insurance policy that covers incidents like over-serving or drunk driving.
- Train staff on recognizing signs of intoxication, knowing legal alcohol limits, using standard measuring tools, and handling difficult situations.
As a bar owner, you have the power to create a safe and enjoyable environment for your customers while also contributing to the betterment of your local community. However, running a bar can be challenging, especially when it comes to serving alcohol responsibly and preventing drunk driving incidents.
Here are essential tips for bar owners to promote responsible serving practices and help keep the community safe. By enforcing these tips, you can help reduce the risk of DWI cases, improve customer satisfaction, and contribute to the overall well-being of your community.
Implement measures to prevent drunk driving.
To prevent drunk driving incidents, consider offering non-alcoholic drink options, food, and free transportation options. Encourage patrons to use ride-sharing services or designate a sober driver. Another option is to partner with an experienced DWI lawyer to offer a free consultation to your customers.
A good DWI lawyer can educate your customers about the consequences of drunk driving and help them make informed decisions. They can also represent them in court should they face a DWI charge. These small steps go a long way in promoting responsible drinking and reducing DWI incidences in your community.
Set clear rules and consequences for over-serve incidents.
As a bar owner, you should clearly define the acceptable limits for serving alcohol. Communicate this policy to your staff and enforce it consistently. Additionally, it’s good practice to have a written agreement between you and your customers regarding their alcohol consumption.
This document can hold customers accountable for their actions and is useful in the event of legal issues. You should also have consequences in place for staff who overserve or turn a blind eye to customers’ excessive drinking.
Support other responsible drinking campaigns in your community.
Get involved in local anti-drunk driving campaigns or other responsible drinking promotions in your community. Supporting these campaigns can increase awareness, improve positive visibility for your business, and result in increased business from responsible drinkers. You can also offer discounts or incentives to customers who participate in these campaigns.
Keep an updated insurance policy.
An up-to-date insurance policy is critical to protecting your business from legal liabilities. Make sure your policy covers incidents like over-serving or drunk driving. Having an insurance policy that aligns with your bar’s responsible serving practices will protect your business in the event of incidents. You can also consider providing insurance education and support to your staff to ensure they are well-informed about the policy.
Train your staff on responsible serving practices.
Proper training is crucial for your bar staff to identify and handle situations where customers are at risk of being overserved. Here are four essential tips you should cover during training:
Recognize signs of intoxication.
Recognizing signs of intoxication is crucial in preventing over-serving. These include slurred speech, unsteady gait, and aggressive behavior. You should train your staff to monitor these signs and know when to stop serving a customer.
Know the legal limit for alcohol consumption.
Ensure your staff understands the legal limits for alcohol consumption in your state. This will help them make informed decisions and prevent potential legal issues. You can display this information in a visible location within your bar for easy reference.
Use standard measuring tools.
Using standard measuring tools like jiggers or pour spouts can help control the amount of alcohol served to customers. This prevents over-serving and ensures consistency in drink servings. You can also offer low-alcohol options or limit the number of drinks per customer to promote responsible drinking.
Have a plan for dealing with difficult situations.
Train your staff on how to handle difficult or confrontational customers who may be intoxicated. This includes knowing when to involve security, offering alternative non-alcoholic options, and ultimately refusing service if necessary.
Consistent staff training on responsible serving practices can help avoid incidents and legal liabilities.
As a bar owner, you wield a remarkable influence over your patrons’ behavior and safety. Ensuring responsible alcohol serving practices is an obligation that goes beyond your establishment and impacts the community at large. By actively promoting a culture of responsibility, offering educational resources, and implementing strict serving policies, you not only protect your patrons but also contribute to a safer community. Remember that a successful bar is not solely defined by its profit margins but also by its commitment to the well-being of its customers and community.
