COLUMBUS, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—As this festive season gains momentum, the Ohio Division of Liquor Control (DOLC) urges Ohio consumers to celebrate responsibly while being mindful of the potential risks associated with alcohol consumption.

The DOLC recently developed an online platform dedicated to Social Responsibility & Alcohol Abuse Prevention. This resource provides consumers with tools to assess their relationship with alcohol, including self-assessment tools, helplines, and treatment center locators. It also offers permit holders guidance on serving alcohol to Ohioans in a secure and responsible manner.

“As we usher in the holiday season, we’re bringing together online resources from various state agencies to foster a culture of social responsibility and combat alcohol abuse effectively,” stated DOLC Superintendent Jim Canepa. “Our aim is to ensure that everyone enjoys holiday festivities in a responsible and lawful manner.”

The DOLC reminds Ohioans that serving alcohol to individuals under the age of 21 is prohibited by Ohio Liquor Control Law.

Party hosts are urged to offer alcohol-free alternatives for guests and ensure safe transportation home. Those planning to patronize bars and restaurants are advised to consume food before drinking responsibly, stay hydrated, and refrain from driving afterward. Safe transportation options include designated drivers, rideshares, taxis, or public transport.

Bars and restaurant personnel should remember to:

  • Check identification at every point of sale to confirm customers are at least 21.
  • Ensure patrons showing signs of intoxication, such as slurred speech, decision-making difficulty, stumbling, vomiting, altered behavior, loss of consciousness, or delayed reactions, are not served.
  • Not hesitate to stop serving a patron who appears intoxicated. Seek assistance and collaborate with management to ensure the patron’s safe return home.
  • Remain vigilant for anyone attempting to tamper with drinks.
  • Ensure that neither staff nor patrons bring illegal substances into their establishments, sidewalks, or parking lots.

To utilize these combined resources for the holiday season, visit com.ohio.gov/SocialResponsibility.