What is one way to slow a customer's drinking and help prevent intoxication?

Serving a glass of water alongside alcoholic beverages is an effective way to slow a customer's drinking and help prevent intoxication. The presence of water encourages hydration, which can mitigate some of the effects of alcohol consumption. It gives patrons a chance to pace themselves and allows their bodies to process the alcohol more effectively. This practice is often recommended in responsible serving guidelines as it helps maintain a balance between alcohol and hydration, promoting safer drinking behavior.

While serving soda with alcoholic drinks may keep beverages appealing, it does not actively contribute to hydration in the same way water does. Smaller sizes of drinks might limit initial alcohol consumption, but it does not address the pace at which someone may drink. Encouraging customers to drink quickly is counterproductive, as it increases the risk of rapid intoxication; thus, it should never be part of responsible service.