The holiday season is hitting its zenith, office parties are in full swing, families are getting together and everyone is in full seasonal regalia, knocking down shots and toasting the beginning of new year. Odd as it may be for a drinks writer and bartender to ask that everyone set down their martinis, their flutes and their shot glasses for a second, I'd like to ask that we do just that and take a moment to sober up and discuss the responsibilities we have.

With all the education and publicity out there on the perils of over-drinking, particularly when it comes to driving, there are always several people out there who either forget or flat-out ignore their limits every holiday season. I'm not talking about anything most of us don't know already, so rather than pitch a lecture here, I'm going to list a few reminders for everyone.

• Know your limits. No one but you knows how much booze is too much for you. If you're like most people, you forget once your in the throes of a solid boozey glow how much is too much. It's not a bad idea to have one of your fellow drinkers watching your back, reminding you, which leads me to...
• Come prepared. Designate a driver. Decide to leave the car home and use a taxi or public transit. Best yet, at least once during the holidays, volunteer to be the designated driver. I admit, I am an unabashed fan of designated drivers, and treat them like royalty in my bar. You should too.
• Eat well, drink water. Food absorbs alcohol, and proper hydration is key. Make sure the bartender hands you a glass of water with your drink.
• Avoid shots. I know I know, I do them too. You don't need shooters to get your buzz on. If you decide the celebration you're having absolutely demands a jolt of something stronger than champagne, do your one shot with your friends and leave it at that.
• Stay away from Red-Bull based drinks. I refuse to carry these in my bar, mostly because people feel more sober when they're mixing in an energy drink with their booze. You can see how mixing a stimulant with a depressant can be a problem.
• Go to a bar where you feel comfortable and where you're sure the bartender will point out when you've had too much. Quite a few joints out there will just feed you your hooch until you get sick or pass out. A bartender who watches your intake and on your level of sobriety is worth their weight in gold.

We talk a lot about the joys of drinks in this space, and it'd be irresponsible of me not to bring up the very real consequences of enjoying those drinks a little too much. Be safe out there. A toast to all of you and may you enjoy this holiday season. We'll see you in the new year.

(See Keith in action behind the bar at Union - 1400 First Avenue, Seattle, WA, 206-838-8000)

[Photo credit: Andre Charland, Flickr]