We Save Lives dedicates this blog to Evan Bard who was killed in May of 2013, while riding in a car with a driver who had too much to drink at a party.  Evan, who was only 20 years old when she died, was a kind, caring and loving young woman who had her whole life in front of her.  She would be alive today if someone had just taken the keys.

You are at a party and everyone is having a good time and in some cases, too good a time.  Someone is getting ready to leave and you are not sure if you should take the keys, call a cab or drive them home. 

The following information comes from:  http://www.michigan.gov/documents/dleg/Responsible_Party_Host_Tips_304285_7.pdf

Know the Signs of Intoxication

Here are some common signs of visible intoxication. If a person shows just one or two of these signs, that does not necessarily mean the person is intoxicated. But if a person shows a combination of several signs, or has a sudden change in behavior, that could be a strong indication that the person is intoxicated. Remember that intoxication can result from the use of drugs other than alcohol. If you’re not sure, don’t serve.

Appearance

1. Bloodshot, glassy eyes

2. Flushed face

3. Droopy eyelids

4. Dazed look

5. Body tremors

6. Blank stare

7. Disheveled clothing

Speech

8. Thick, slurred speech

9. Loud, noisy speech

10. Speaking loudly, then quietly

11. Rambling train of thought

12. Slow response to questions or comments

13. Bravado, boasting

14. Making irrational statements

Attitude

15. Annoying other guests and employees

16. Argumentative

17. Aggressive or belligerent

18. Obnoxious or mean

19. Inappropriate sexual advances

20. Overly friendly to other guests or employees

21. Boisterous

Behavior

22. Swaying, staggering, or stumbling

23. Unable to sit straight

24. Careless with money

25. Difficulty making change

26. Restless

27. Depressed or sullen

28. Crying or moody

29. Extreme or sudden change in behavior

30. Overly animated or entertaining

31. Crude, inappropriate speech or gestures

32. Drowsiness

33. Lack of focus and eye contact

34. Difficulty standing up

35. Unusual walk

36. Falling off of chair

37. Falling asleep

38. Can’t find mouth with glass

39. Falling down

40. Difficulty lighting cigarettes

41. Lighting more than one cigarette

42. Clumsy

43. Difficulty remembering

44. Spilling drinks

45. Disoriented

46. Agitated, anxious

47. Grinding teeth

Other

48. Odor of alcohol, marijuana or chemicals

49. Excessive perspiration

50. Repeated trips

Do you know how many lives we could save if we just took some responsibility not only for ourselves but for others?  They may get angry at first but they will thank you later when they are home safe, without being arrested and without harming someone else.  When in doubt, please take the keys and find your companions another way home.  Do not let them drive.  This is a time to celebrate life, and the love of friends and family.  Take the keys, You will be doing everyone a favor.  You will save lives.

Happy Holidays from We Save Lives