Drinking Means Responsibility

Before this weekend approaches, I want to take this time to write about the responsibilities of drinking. For most college students the weekend is a time to cut loose and let off some steam after a hard stressful week of lectures and homework. Every weekend Cedar Falls Main St. and College Hill are packed with young adults looking to have a good time. As much fun as having a few drinks with your friends can be, a good night can quickly turn into a nightmare. There are certain ways to minimize the risks of going out and drinking.

• Have a designated driver
  If you and you're friends are driving somewhere to drink it is always a good idea to have a designated driver to get everyone home safely. I know some people think it's not cool to be sober while their friends seem to be having such a fun time drinking, but one night of sacrifice and staying sober is better than the consequences of drinking and driving. Besides, sometimes it's more fun to stay sober and watch the stupid shit your friends do while they're drunk. 
• Give up your keys
  If you go out to drink at a friends house, give your keys to a friend you trust. A fun night at a friends house can go from a night of revelry to a night in jail if you decide to drive home afterwards. And its a good idea to give up your keys right away because you might forget later after the alcohol has already impaired your judgement. 
• Have a taxi cab's business card in your wallet or purse
  Already had a couple drinks and you don't have a sober friend who can drive? Having a business card of a taxi service will solve any of those issues. 
• Keep a 1:1 ratio of alcoholic drinks to glasses of water
  This ratio won't prevent you from having a good time, and will make you feel so much better waking up the next morning. 

A few years ago when I first headed off for college, my dad gave me his advice about drinking.

1. it's better to go to a party than to host a party
2. if you host a party, lock up the power tools
3. don't let drunk people sleep in your bed. (you don't want anyone puking on it)

So with this advice in mind, go out and have a good time but remember to drink responsibly.