Our concern about exposure to alcohol and other drugs also drives our recommendation to help persons in early recovery avoid exposure to situations where alcohol and other drugs will be present. For the person recently discharged from addiction rehab, these situations are potentially very dangerous. We do, however, understand that sometimes it is important to attend special occasions. When these situations occur, talk with your loved one about them before they attend. Develop a “safety plan” for the event. The plan may include having a sober partner present at all times, agreeing to arrive at the event early and then leave early, or attending a 12 Step meeting before and/or right after the event.