What should a server do if a patron refuses to stop drinking?

When a patron refuses to stop drinking, notifying management and following cut-off policies is a critical step for several reasons. Alcohol service laws and regulations often require servers to refuse service to individuals who appear to be intoxicated, which helps maintain the safety of all patrons as well as the establishment. Management is usually familiar with these policies and can enforce them effectively.

Following cut-off policies means that the server is adhering to responsible alcohol service practices that prioritize the well-being of the patron and others. This action can prevent potential incidents, such as incidents of intoxication leading to accidents or altercations. By involving management, the server also ensures that there is a collective approach to handling the situation, which can provide additional support for managing difficult patrons.

Encouraging a patron to drink more water does not address the refusal to stop drinking and may even promote further intoxication. Ignoring the situation completely poses significant risks to the safety of the patron and others. Offering drink discounts is contrary to responsible service practices and could encourage continued drinking, exacerbating the issue.