Do not drink and drive or use medication while drinking.

While this tip should be common knowledge, the rate of DUIs remains alarmingly high, and alcohol-related traffic deaths are prevalent. Alcohol causes drowsiness; you don’t want alertness compromised when making the types of split-second decisions that are often needed when operating a motor vehicle.

Know your family’s history.

If you or members of your family have a history of alcohol-related disorders, then tread lightly, especially at events like a Super Bowl party. Allow me to share a family secret: several members of my family have suffered from alcoholism. And I’m not alone — more than one-half of American adults have some sort of family history with alcoholism. If you are susceptible to this kind of behavior, keep a tight rein on your alcohol consumption because events that feature high levels of alcohol consumption can be the first step down a very long, dark road.

Use the buddy system.

If you attend any Super Bowl events with a friend, make sure that you are not only being responsible for your own well-being, but that your friend is safe as well. Never accept drinks from strangers or leave your drinks unattended. By following those practices, in conjunction with the others listed, you should be in for a very enjoyable, yet safe night.