What to Do at a Party When Underage Drinking Occurs: Guidance for Responsible Behavior

The question of whether you should call the police when underage drinking occurs at a party is not as straightforward as it might seem. While there are differing perspectives, this article aims to provide guidance for both underage and adult guests on how to handle such situations responsibly and ethically.

Different Perspectives

Some might argue that as underage drinkers, the best course of action is to steer clear of drinking entirely and intervene to discourage others from drinking. Others might suggest that because private parties often cater to young adults who are legally underage, it is sometimes acceptable to have a few social drinks in a controlled environment.

For Underage Guests

If you are an underage guest at a party, it is crucial to adhere to your own limits and act responsibly. Here are some steps you can take:

Avoid drinking entirely: This is perhaps the most straightforward advice, but it is essential to maintain your own safety and avoid any legal issues. Speak out: If you see underage drinking happening, use your voice to discourage it. Engage with your peers in a calm, assertive manner to express your concerns. Seek adult help: If your efforts to discourage drinking fall short, identify a responsible adult who can intervene. This could be a parent, a mentor, or a trusted family friend.

For Adult Guests

If you are an adult attending a party where underage drinking is taking place, your role is more complex. Here’s what you can do:

Be a role model: Abstain from drinking yourself to set a good example. If you do drink, do so in moderation and responsibly. Speak to the young people: Approach the underage drinkers individually and explain the risks and legal implications of underage drinking. Be clear and firm in your message. Engage with the host: If the underage drinking continues, speak with the person in charge of the party. Request that they take steps to address the situation, such as removing alcohol or making it inaccessible to minors. Call the police if necessary: If you believe the situation is dangerous or out of control, do not hesitate to call the police. However, be prepared for the consequences, as this could result in the party being interrupted and legal action being taken.

What to Do if You Can’t Stop the Underage Drinking

If you find yourself in a situation where you cannot stop the underage drinking, consider the following options:

Leave the party: If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, it is perfectly acceptable to leave. This might put the responsibility on someone else, but it ensures your personal safety. Call the police: This is a drastic measure that could lead to legal consequences for the host and the underage drinkers. However, it may be necessary if the situation is truly dangerous or illegal. Do nothing: If the host is willing to address the issue and seems capable of taking the necessary steps, you might choose to do nothing. However, this could leave the problem unresolved and pose a risk to others.

Emergencies

It is important to be prepared for emergencies. If someone at the party experiences alcohol poisoning, a severe reaction, or any other medical emergency, call emergency services immediately. Medicos and the police will be dispatched to handle the situation.

The Main Takeaway

The key is communication and intervention. Always seek to engage in calm, assertive ways to discourage underage drinking. Seek help from responsible adults or officials if necessary. Remember, the safety and well-being of all guests should be the top priority.