How to be a responsible host These common-sense recommendations will help you remember your party for the good time that it was, rather than the problems you encountered with your neighbors, the police or your guests. Only serve alcohol to people 21 or older and obey all laws to keep your party safe. Talk to your neighbors before you hold a party. Let them know when things will begin and end, and encourage them to contact you if they have a concern. Contact your local police department before the party and let them know you plan to have some friends over. You might think this is crazy, but they aren't going to bother you unless you are doing something illegal. Encourage people to carpool to cut down on driving drunk and tominimize the number of cars in your neighborhood. Serve food to your guests, such as snacks, sandwiches or pizza. Don't allow strangers into you party. Remind guests to be respectful of your neighbors when they arrive and leave. This would include limiting noise and staying off your neighbors' property. Keep your party inside. Make sure someone from the apartment is periodically checking the noise level outside. Designate a sober roommate to keep things under control and who can drive people home late at night if necessary. Provide your guests with non-alcoholic beverages and limit the amount of alcohol you provide to your guests. Once the party ends, clean up the trash on your yard or street. - From the Party Smart Kit