Celebrate St. Patrick's Day Safely, Take a Cab

If you're planning to drink in celebration of St. Patrick's Day on Saturday, the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) warns that drinking large amounts of alcohol can be dangerous.

In a press release, the agency notes that "binge drinking" occurs when a man consumes five or more drinks, or a woman consumes four or more drinks, in a short period of time. Because women metabolize alcohol less efficiently than men and usually have less body mass, they become more intoxicated with a comparable number of drinks (one drink is generally calculated as a 12 oz. bottle of beer or wine cooler, a 5 oz. glass of wine or 1.5 oz. of 80-proof distilled spirits).

The MLCC also warns liquor license holders that over-serving alcohol can have serious consequences.

“This is a fun holiday celebrated by many, and there will certainly be increased business, however it is the responsibility of our licensees to make sure that they do not over serve their patrons,” said Andy Deloney, Chairman of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC). “In addition to the health and social dangers of over serving, doing so is a violation with fines up to $1,000, with the possibility of a suspension or revocation of a license. If you're not sure, don't serve.”

Whether you celebrate at a pub, a friend's home or your own home, remember that drinking and driving penalties are now more severe for the so-called "super drunk" drivers, who have a blood alcohol content over .17. If you need a ride home, ABC Cab operates in Farmington and Farmington Hills, call 248-477-4300.

A full list of Oakland County cab services is published at oaklandweb.com.

For a complete list of visible signs of intoxication or more information about the MLCC, visit michigan.gov/lcc. Follow the MLCC on Twitter or on Facebook.