A regular customer, who usually drinks steadily but not to excess, begins showing signs of intoxication (slurred speech, stumbling) after their third drink. What is your next best step?

Question: A regular customer, who usually drinks steadily but not to excess, begins showing signs of intoxication (slurred speech, stumbling) after their third drink. What is your next best step?

Answer options:

• Serve them water and suggest they slow down, but continue to serve them if they insist. ✅ Immediately refuse service, politely explain why, and offer non-alcoholic alternatives.
• Tell their friends to manage their drinking and monitor them from a distance.
• Continue to serve them for a short while, hoping they will recover and then refuse service.

Correct answer: Immediately refuse service, politely explain why, and offer non-alcoholic alternatives.

Explanation: Once a patron shows signs of intoxication, servers are legally required to refuse further service of alcohol. The refusal should be polite and explained, with an offer of non-alcoholic options. Option A continues service despite clear signs of intoxication, which is illegal. Option C shifts responsibility. Option D is a dangerous delay and further exacerbates the intoxication.