A LOCAL GOVERNMENT GUIDE to CREATING MUNICIPAL ALCOHOL POLICY A LOCAL GOVERNMENT/FIRST NATION GUIDE to CREATING MUNICIPAL ALCOHOL POLICY Preface

• Other Authors: The Pennsylvania State University CiteSeerX Archives
• Format: Text
• Language: English
• Subjects: First Nations
• Online Access: http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/summary?doi=10.1.1.638.753; http://www.health.gov.bc.ca/library/publications/year/2012/creating-municipal-alcohol-policy.pdf

This document has been prepared by the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with BC Healthy Communities, to serve as a guide for local governments/First Nations in the planning of a municipal alcohol policy (MAP). A MAP helps local governments/First Nations manage alcohol facilities they own and manage, and reduces liability for alcohol-related problems. This guide explains what a MAP is, how it can benefit your local government/First Nation and how to create one, from start to finish. This document is part of a broader set of initiatives that are underway across the province to improve the overall health and well-being of British Columbians. These initiatives include strategies, programs and policies that aim to mitigate the harms associated with the consumption of alcohol and other substances. A MAP is a public policy that seeks to create an environment that supports healthy lifestyles. Implementing a MAP in a community makes healthy options available to people who use local government/First Nation facilities for events where alcohol is provided. The development and adoption of a MAP also supports the work of the Liquor Control and Licensing Branch and is a recommended strategy to reduce the public safety risk associated with consumption of liquor at community events and facilities. The ultimate public health goal of a MAP is moderate consumption of alcohol through the promotion of practices that will prevent under-aged drinking, intoxication, and other forms of risky drinking. MAPs also have an important public safety goal by ensuring that local government/First Nation owned facilities and events are safe and well-managed. They support community values and a culture of moderation by raising awareness about alcohol-related issues and influencing community social norms that contribute to drinking behaviours. For more information on MAP and other related initiatives, please visit the Healthy Minds, Healthy People website at: www.health.gov.bc.ca/healthy-minds/