Alcohol and Party Risk Management

Hosts

Guests

Neighbors

Alcohol

Food

Noise

Setting

Important Contacts

Alcohol Overdose

In the News

When approached about having a party, I think neighbors should say something like, "Sure, have a party, that is fine with me, as long as you don't break the law; quiet time starts at 10 pm and keep the mess inside otherwise I am calling the police." I think if noisemakers hear this often enough, they might get the picture. In fact, my neighbor had a very reasonable party after a similar response from me awhile back.
- Southside Neighbor, 2009

• Whether a short or long term resident, make an effort to build relationships, communication and respect with neighbors. There is an amazing array of interesting people among us. Exchange contact information early on.
• Communicate needs and expectations about work, sleep, study and play. Be ready to compromise for the good of the whole sometimes. Also be ready to call for help if other communications don't work.
• Talk with neighbors in advance of parties to exchange contact information and work out a acceptable party logistics, i.e. activities, location, noise, start and end time, clean-up. Follow through on the agreements. Check in afterwards about what worked and what didn't.
• Keep the noise level down. Keep the party inside the residence. Don't let guests hang out in front of your house, especially after 10pm when Berkeley's "quiet hours" begin.
• If neighbors contact you about noise, respect their interests and appreciate that they are talking with you directly rather than calling the police.
• Clean up trash on your property and surrounding areas as soon a possible. Check with your neighbors the next day to see if they had any problems.