Michigan Liquor Control Commission Wishes Everyone a SAFE and HAPPY Holiday Season

Contact: Andrea Miller 517-322-5898

Agency: Licensing and Regulatory Affairs

December 13, 2010--As office holiday parties and family gatherings are getting underway across the state, the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) is reminding legal purchase age adults who choose to enjoy a drink to do so safely this holiday season.

Alcohol can be enjoyed responsibly by the vast majority of legal-age adults; some individuals over-consume, abuse or choose to consume it before they are of legal age and can be harmful to themselves and others.

"If alcohol is a part of your celebration, keep in mind that 65 percent of kids get their alcohol from friends and family," said MLCC Chairperson Nida R. Samona. "With older siblings home from college or visiting family in town for the holidays, it is even more tempting and easier for kids to obtain and consume alcohol."

Here are some tips from www.drinksmart.com to safely and responsibly enjoy your holiday season: 

• Think in terms of "standard drinks"-not number of drinks. One 12-ounce beer contains the same amount of alcohol as one 5-ounce glass of wine and one 1.5-ounce shot of spirits. So, that 32-ounce beer isn't "just one beer" anymore than a Grande Margarita is "just one drink." 
• Take control - have a plan and stick to it. Order your own drinks to control what's in them, and remember that no one can force you to have "just one more" - or even one, for that matter. Drink plenty of water to remain properly hydrated. When you reach your pre-set limit, stop drinking. 
• Don't refill your glass before you've finished it. If you keep refilling before you're done, how will you know how many "standard drinks" you've had? That can make for a dangerous and inaccurate calculation of your alcohol consumption. 
• Never drive drunk. While it's perfectly acceptable to enjoy a cocktail within the legal limit, , don't ever "guess" or take unnecessary risks. If you are at all unsure about your ability to drive safely, make alternative arrangements: ask a friend to drive you home, or take a cab.

"Michigan has tough laws and severe penalties for those who drink and drive. One of the greatest gifts you can give to others is to volunteer as a designated driver during the holiday party season or ensuring that partygoers have a safe ride home. Let's keep everyonesafe this holiday season and drink responsibly,," said Samona.

For more information about responsible consumption, visit our website www.michigan.gov/lcc, or visit The Century Council Web site at www.centurycouncil.org. 

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