When you're having a party, you want your guests to have a great time, naturally. If you want to be a responsible host too, remember that:

The Government advises that most men should not regularly drink more than three to four units and most women should not regularly drink more than two to three units per day to avoid harm to their health. Pregnant women are advised not to drink, but if they choose to they should not drink more than one or two units, once or twice a week and avoid intoxication. And drivers should stay off the booze altogether.

Here are some simple ways to help guests enjoy the party - without putting themselves or others at risk of harm or feeling like death warmed up the day after.

• Offer juice and other alcohol free alternatives
• Serve food - it really helps mop up the booze
• Making home made cocktails or punch? Don't make it too strong and make sure you offer alcohol-free alternatives too
• If people have had a bit too much, encourage them (very nicely) to have a soft drink
• Keep a special eye out for young people and make sure they're OK
• Make sure everyone can get home safely, with a sober driver, reliable public transport, or a licensed cab
• Last but not least - don't get plastered yourself!