Scottish Irish Society of the Black Hills
Safety Guidelines
12/16/05


Drink Responsibly

It is a Celtic custom to offer toasts to the good fortune and health of our friends.  A good toast is often followed by consumption of an alcoholic beverage.  The Scottish and Irish Society would like to continue this tradition responsibly.

Henceforth the Scottish and Irish Society will follow these guidelines: 
1) The SIS generally will not purchase and dispense alcoholic beverages for events.  An exception would be for Single Malt Scotch Tasting.  At such an event alcohol would only be served in measured quantities.
2) When appropriate, members may bring their own beverages.
3) When practical, members and guests will be reminded to drink responsibly at events involving alcohol. 
4) Members or guests who drink alcohol need to plan ahead to designate a safe, sober driver to take them home.
5) Keep a few tricks in mind: When toasting, it is not necessary to empty your glass. Try alternating a non-alcoholic drink with the alcoholic drinks throughout the evening.  Know your limit and count your drinks.
6) Minors are not allowed to drink alcohol at SIS events.
7) If a member sees a person in need of a ride home, please offer to help.
8) When practical, an attempt will be made to post these guidelines.

Weapon Display

The wearing and display of ceremonial weapons is encouraged for the cultural aspects of our heritage.  However, many of these weapons are sharp and/or heavy.  They can injure others, especially children.  Children enjoy seeing and handling weapons.  Please carry and display weapons safely.

Henceforth the Scottish and Irish Society will follow these guidelines: 
1) Swords and knives should be sheathed when not being handled by an adult.
2) Swords should be removed and stored safely when dancing.
3) Large, heavy weapons should be secured to prevent falling on persons when stored.
4) Weapons should be supervised or watched by an adult when they cannot be locked up.
5) No projectiles should be released inside of a building.  Catapults and trebuchets should only be launched outside, aimed away from persons.


Personal Responsibility:

The SIS strives to create an atmosphere suited for all family members.  This puts special responsibility upon all of us to practice acceptable public behavior.  

1) Extreme intoxication and the behavior accompanying over-intoxication are not acceptable.
2) Vulgar language and lewd jokes and are not acceptable.
3) Mock sword play with weapons is dangerous and generally should not be practiced at SIS events.  Only trained adults should undertake this activity in a safe, designated area.
4) SIS is not responsible for personal property of members or guests.
5) Parents must be responsible for the safety and behavior of their children.  This is especially true around kitchens, athletic fields, ceremonial weapons and on dance floors.




Persons not adhering to these guidelines may be asked to leave the event.



When appropriate a member of the SIS should review these guidelines with the group at an event.