- Remember not to let your social obligations get in the way of your academic success.
- Let your neighbors know in advance if you’re planning a large social gathering or party. Tell them when it will start and when it will end. Give them your name and phone number so they can call you if there is a problem.
- Limit the number of people you invite, and only invite people you know. Large crowds can become unruly and hard to manage or control.
- Be familiar with the state and local laws regarding alcohol consumption and supplying alcohol to others.
- Read your lease carefully so you will be familiar with its requirements. Check with your landlord about policies regarding parties or gatherings. Know your rights and responsibilities.
- Establish a reasonable ending time for your event and have everyone leave at that time. Remember your neighbors may have to work, get up early the next morning, or have young children at home.
- Have plenty of trash cans and recycling bins available to dispose of cups, cans, and bottles. Place a trash can by the front door or at the sidewalk so guests can discard their litter as they leave.
- Tell your guests not to park on neighbors’ lawns. Make sure your friends don’t block driveways and roads with their vehicles. Roadways need to be kept open for emergency vehicles should someone need an ambulance or fire truck.
- Periodically, walk outside to check out the noise level and adjust it accordingly. Remember that voices carry and by moving the party indoors you can better avoid disturbing your neighbors.
- Limit the number of drinks served per person (one per hour is the safest place, should you decide to drink and are of the legal drinking age of 21).
- Know the signs of alcohol poisoning and what to do to keep friends safe.
- Don’t drink too much yourself. You should be able to stay in control of your party; otherwise, designate a sober party host.
- If you receive calls from neighbors or the police come to your party because of problems, cooperate with their requests.
- Do not allow drinking contests or drinking games that encourage the over-consumption of alcohol.
- Keep guests off all roofs and balconies that are crowded.
- Help people find rides home from a sober driver who has not consumed any alcohol. There are taxi companies, Ubers and Lyft available.