Before serving alcohol, what should a server do?

A vital responsibility for servers is to interact with patrons to observe signs of intoxication before serving alcohol. By engaging with customers, the server can assess their behavior, speech clarity, and physical coordination, which are indicators of intoxication levels. This proactive measure helps in making informed decisions about whether to serve alcohol and in promoting a safe drinking environment.

Recognizing signs of intoxication is crucial for compliance with laws regarding responsible service of alcohol, as well as for ensuring the safety of all patrons. Servers must be vigilant about serving only those who are not already displaying signs of excessive alcohol consumption, as this can prevent potential accidents and uphold the establishment's reputation.

While ensuring that patrons are of legal age, advising on drink limits, and requiring IDs are important elements of responsible service, the focus on monitoring behavior during interactions directly addresses the immediate condition of the patrons and ensures they are fit to receive alcoholic beverages at that time.