Remember that you and others have the right to abstain from alcohol. If you do choose to drink, please do so responsibly. Alcohol use by persons under the age of 21 is illegal and is not condoned by Missouri S&T SHS.

Know What You are Drinking

Know the alcohol content of the drinks being served. Many teas and punches contain a very high amount of alcohol and may even contain illegal drugs. There are reports of the drug Rohypnol, known as the "date rape drug", being put unsuspectingly in drinks. It is important to watch your open drink and not to accept an open drink from a person you do not know well.

Do Not Drink & Drive

Do not allow an intoxicated person to drive. If the party you are at does not provide sober drivers, appoint someone from your group of friends as the sober driver. Some of the local bars will provide free soft drinks to the designated driver. Remember to take turns being the designated driver. Also, persons under the age of 21 can lose their license under the Zero Tolerance law if they have a .08 blood alcohol content. In most persons, one beer will put them at .08.

Do Not Drink on an Empty Stomach

Food slows the absorption of alcohol into the blood stream. It is best to choose foods that are high in protein such as cheese and meat.

Know Your Limit and Stay Within It

Alcohol affects each person differently. Factors include your gender, body weight, mood, amount of food eaten, and level of experience. The rate at which you drink is also a big factor. Generally our bodies can metabolize one drink an hour. Avoid gulping and guzzling! Party games should be avoided because they encourage excessive consumption, often beyond what the body can handle.

Do Not Combine Alcohol with Other Drugs or Medications

Alcohol is a depressant. When combined with other depressant medications or drugs, a cumulative effect can occur. This can be very dangerous and may cease breathing. Even cold medications can be dangerous when taken with alcohol.