Which of the following best summarizes how to handle intoxicated patrons?

• A. Continue to serve until the patron asks to stop.
• B. Stop serving alcohol, ensure safety, and offer alternatives or arrange safe transport.
• C. Ignore signs of intoxication.
• D. Only offer food.

Answer: (B)

Recognizing intoxication and taking steps to prevent harm is the core idea here. When a patron appears to be intoxicated, the responsible action is to stop serving alcohol, focus on their safety, and help them get home or offer non-alcoholic options. This approach protects the patron and others around them and aligns with responsible beverage service norms and applicable laws. Practical steps include calmly informing them you can’t serve more, offering water or non-alcoholic drinks, providing food to slow absorption, and arranging safe transport such as a taxi or rideshare, or a designated driver. If needed, involve a supervisor or security to handle the situation safely. Continuing to serve until they ask to stop would increase risk, ignoring signs of intoxication is unsafe, and offering only food doesn’t address the intoxication.