Health Tip: Throw a Safe New Year's Eve Bash

(HealthDay News) -- If you''re throwing a New Year''s Eve party, you want your guests to be safe. So does the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the agency offers these tips to party throwers:

• Avoid making alcohol the main focus of social events. Entertain guests with music, dancing, games, food and conversation.
• Offer plenty of nonalcoholic beverage choices, including sparkling water, fancy juice drinks, soft drinks and bottled water.
• Provide guests with nutritious and appealing foods to slow the effects of alcohol. High protein and carbohydrate foods such as cheese and meats are great. Avoid salty foods, which encourage people to drink more.
• Stop serving drinks at least an hour before the end of the event. Instead, serve coffee, non-alcoholic beverages and desserts.
• Recruit people ahead of time who will not be drinking to help you make sure everyone has a safe ride home.

-- Anne Thompson