If you are planning a night out with friends, you may decide to have a few alcoholic drinks. Maintain a high level of safety without skimping on the fun by following these recommendations.

1. Eat Before You Go Out

Before heading out for drinks, imbibe in a delicious meal. Make sure it includes a mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fats.

Having a full stomach causes the alcohol to be absorbed by your body at a slower rate. You generally feel better because the effects of the alcohol come on gradually rather than all at once.

2. Have a Plan to Get Home

Don't leave your house without a plan to get back home. One traditional option is to have a designated driver. To ensure there are no questions about the driver's blood alcohol level, have the driver stick with sodas, water, and other non-alcoholic beverages. If you still get pulled over on the way home and need a lawyer, contact Pollack & Ball LLC.

Ride sharing services and taxis are two other possibilities. Make sure to check on the cost before accepting a ride, as some alternatives have peak pricing that can make an otherwise affordable ride extremely expensive.

Depending on where you live and the location of your outing, public transportation may be a viable, affordable alternative.

Avoid walking home. Alcohol makes you less alert to your surroundings, increasing your risk of being attacked or mugged. It can also cause you to make rash decisions, such as trying to beat approaching traffic when crossing the street.

3. Know Where Your Drink is Coming From

Order your drink directly from the bartender. If someone wants to buy you a drink, go with him or her to the bartender so that you can watch the drink be prepared.  Do not leave your drink unattended, even for a minute.  

 If a drink tastes funny or has an odd odor, stop drinking.

Unfortunately, many agents are tasteless and odorless.  The numerous flavors found in cocktails can also mask some substances. If you notice that you feel unusually dizzy or disoriented, seek medical attention immediately.

4. Incorporate Other Liquids into Your Night

Alcohol is notorious for dehydrating the body, contributing to the nasty symptoms associated with a hangover.  To keep the body hydrated, enjoy glasses of water and juice throughout the night. It is best to drink fluids other than alcoholic beverages throughout the entire night.

Before you head out for a night of fun, make preparations to make it a safe evening. By following a few recommendations, you minimize the risks associated with enjoying alcoholic beverages.