a member of a group of patrons becomes obviously intoxicated

Breiz Heurope

2 min read

·

09-03-2025

1

0

Share

Handling Intoxicated Patrons: A Guide for Businesses

Dealing with intoxicated patrons is a common challenge for businesses, especially those serving alcohol. Knowing how to handle the situation safely and responsibly is crucial for protecting your staff, other patrons, and your business's reputation. This article outlines a step-by-step approach to managing intoxicated patrons, focusing on de-escalation and safety.

Identifying Intoxication:

Recognizing the signs of intoxication is the first step. These can include:

• Slurred speech: Difficulty forming words or speaking clearly.
• Unsteady gait: Difficulty walking or maintaining balance.
• Aggressive or erratic behavior: Increased loudness, hostility, or unpredictable actions.
• Impaired judgment: Making poor decisions or exhibiting risky behavior.
• Slowed reaction time: Delayed responses to questions or requests.

It's important to note that different individuals react to alcohol differently. What constitutes intoxication for one person might be less noticeable in another. Err on the side of caution. If you have any doubt, it's best to intervene.

Responding to Intoxication:

Once you've identified an intoxicated patron, follow these steps:

1. Assess the Situation:

Observe the individual's behavior and demeanor. Is the person becoming aggressive or disruptive? Are they a threat to themselves or others? If the situation seems unsafe, call for backup immediately (security, management, or law enforcement).

2. Approach with Calmness and Respect:

Speak to the intoxicated patron in a calm, respectful, and non-confrontational manner. Avoid accusatory language. Use clear and simple instructions. A gentle approach often yields better results than aggressive confrontation.

3. Offer Assistance:

If appropriate, offer assistance such as water or help finding a seat. Your goal is to de-escalate the situation, not to provoke the patron.

4. Cut Off Service:

Refuse further service of alcohol. This is vital. Many jurisdictions have laws requiring businesses to refuse service to visibly intoxicated patrons. Explain your decision firmly but politely. Offer non-alcoholic options instead.

5. Monitor the Situation:

Continue to monitor the patron's behavior. If their condition worsens or their behavior becomes more problematic, take further action.

When to Call for Help:

In the following scenarios, seek immediate assistance from security, management, or law enforcement:

• Aggressive or violent behavior: The patron poses a clear threat to themselves or others.
• Uncooperative behavior: The patron refuses to comply with your requests or becomes increasingly disruptive.
• Medical emergency: The patron appears to be experiencing a medical emergency related to alcohol consumption.

Documenting the Incident:

Always document incidents involving intoxicated patrons. Record the date, time, details of the patron's behavior, actions taken, and any witnesses. This documentation can be crucial if a legal issue arises.

Training and Prevention:

Proper training for staff is essential in handling intoxicated patrons effectively. Regularly train your staff on recognizing signs of intoxication, de-escalation techniques, and when to call for help. Establishing a clear policy on serving alcohol and handling intoxicated patrons is also important. This policy should be communicated to all staff members.

By implementing these strategies, businesses can create a safer and more enjoyable environment for all patrons while minimizing liability. Remember, your priority is the safety and well-being of everyone involved. The approach should always be de-escalation and conflict resolution, followed by appropriate intervention if necessary.