The cold weather is here to stay for the next few months and many of us prefer to wait it out by hibernating at home. Playing host to friends and family during this time of year can be a lot of fun and can alleviate the isolation that is often associated with a cold snap. But it can also put a lot of more responsibility on your shoulders, especially when it comes to making sure your guests make it home safely once the night ends.

"It's usually one of the last things people think of when they are having friends come over or planning a party," explains Jeanette Espie, executive director of Alberta's Office of Traffic Safety. " And it really should be the thing that guides your entertaining plans."

Responsible hosts are encouraged to plan ahead. Use these tips to plan a party where everyone can get home safely:

Take charge -- establish rules and let your guests know that no one drives away from your home under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Let your guests know that excessive drinking is not accepted or welcomed at your celebration. Establish a time limit on your party.

Plan activities -- make sure that drinking is not the principal activity.

Serve high protein food -- this type of food will stay in the stomach longer and slow the rate at which the body absorbs alcohol.

Use non-carbonated mixers -- carbonated mixers speed the absorption of alcohol into the body.

Serve alternative beverages -- provide non-alcoholic drinks for guests who want them. Encourage guests who are drinking alcohol to alternate alcoholic beverages with non-alcoholic alternatives.

Don't push drinks -- your guests may not wish to appear rude and may accept drinks they don't want.

Measure every drink -- guests are less likely to drink to excess if they can accurately keep track of the amount that they have had to drink. Use a measure to pour drinks.

"These ideas are basic common sense that need to be followed if you really want to influence how much alcohol your guests consume," says Espie. "Responsible hosts should also look for ways to promote safe rides home for their guests. Obviously, no one is saying that people shouldn't enjoy themselves, but hosts should try to have a plan in place to make sure guests who've indulged still make it home safely.

Ideas for ensuring guests don't drink and drive include:

• Appointing designated drivers;
• Creating a key drop system;
• Offering alternate modes of transportation home.

Espie does have one last piece of advice for the responsible host. "Along with your party supplies, you might want to stock up on breakfast foods. Offering a guest a room for the night is an option to consider. Your inconvenience can't begin to measure up to what the other consequences might be."
The Alberta Office of Traffic Safety encourages all Albertans to ensure home entertaining is hosted responsibly. Remember, as a host you may also be held liable for the damages caused by an impaired driver who over indulged at your party.