Page 45 - The Ultimate Guidebook for Teens with Food Allergies

it is a really good idea to bring two auto-injectors. Furthermore, it is important that you tell your friends where your auto-injector is and to ensure that they know what to do if you have a reaction.
Aside from making sure you are well prepared with your auto-injector, know what (or if) you’ll be drinking and what you would do in situations where drinks or cups are being shared. Doing research about which types of alcohol contain your allergen is key. And bring your own alcohol so you know it is safe. If drinks are being shared, be aware that either the drink may contain your allergen or whoever is offering the drink may have consumed your allergen(s) at some point throughout the day. Often, it is better to be safe and politely decline unless you are sure that the drink is safe and the person has not consumed your allergen(s). Sharing cups can also be dangerous. It is safest to find (or bring) clean cups or at least wash the cups before you use them.
If food is being served at a party, talk to the host before it is brought out to make sure that there’s nothing that will put you in danger. However, unexpected situations do happen and, suddenly, there may be food brought out that you are very allergic to. In these types of situations, stay calm and politely, but firmly, explain that the food needs to be put away or moved to another room. Or, if you feel it is out of your control, it might be best to call it a night.
Finally, it’s necessary to recognize that, if you have been drinking, you may not be able to make appropriate judgment calls about what is “safe.” Put simply, you are more likely to take risks if alcohol is involved. Compromising your safety by drinking too much is never a good idea. And we hope that, by reading this chapter, you’ve realized some of the risks associated with going out to parties. But we also hope that you’ll be able to incorporate our tips and advice so that you can enjoy going to parties safely.
Summary Tips
1) Get in touch with the party host in advance and let them know about your allergies.
2) Remember that common allergens can be found in alcohol.
3) Always bring your auto-injector with you when going to a party.