Partygoers are pushing for clubs to offer free water: 'It costs as much as a beer'

NYC Bars to Offer Free Water as Petition Gains Momentum

New York City's nightlife scene may soon see a change in its drinking culture with free water stations on tap at bars and clubs. As of late, partygoers have been pushing for this basic safety measure, citing instances where dehydration led to serious issues.

According to Brian Hackel, an EMT working at local events, providing free water can make all the difference between someone needing medical attention and not having to visit urgent care or hospital. A recent petition started by Hackel has garnered over 500 signatures, with advocates calling for regulations to be put in place requiring alcohol-serving venues to provide water stations.

While some establishments do offer free water, many others charge exorbitant prices ranging from $5 to $10 per bottle. The lack of regulation on this matter has led to concerns about the well-being of partygoers.

Similar efforts have been made in other cities, such as San Francisco and Ibiza, Spain, where venues are required by law to provide free water on demand. However, New York's laws are more vague, allowing for varying interpretations among venues.

Harm reduction advocates argue that providing free water is a sound investment, as it can alleviate issues related to dehydration and promote patron safety. They also point out that offering basic amenities can deter potential customers from choosing establishments with poor service standards.

"I would stand by the bar and see people order water, and I remember being baffled by the price," said Peter Kerre, a New York DJ and community activist. "It cost almost as much as a beer."

As the petition gains momentum, advocates hope that specific regulations will be put in place to ensure venues provide clear access to free water stations. This could include illuminated signs, fire codes for the building's infrastructure, and even emergency protocols in case of dehydration.

While there is no timeline set for any changes to New York City's laws regarding free water at bars and clubs, one thing is certain – partygoers are demanding better safety standards from the nightlife scene.

Can't believe they have to petition for this . Like, come on bars! Free water isn't that hard to offer, especially when you're serving booze. It's not like it's going to break the bank or anything. And honestly, how many times have I seen people stumbling around and then getting sick from dehydration? It's a basic human right to stay hydrated while having fun .

And what's with the prices they're charging for water bottles? $5-$10?! That's straight-up crazy . I've had water bottles that cost less than that at the gym . It's not like it's a luxury item or anything.

I'm all for regulations being put in place, but let's be real, this is a matter of common sense . Can't we just have some basic safety standards in place? Like, what's the harm in providing free water to patrons? It's not going to kill anyone .

I'm rooting for the petition and hope they get some changes made soon .

I mean, think about it - NYC bars charging $5-$10 for a bottle of water? That's crazy talk! I'm all for the petition to make free water stations mandatory in bars and clubs. It's basic human decency, you know? Plus, dehydration can be super serious, and it's not worth risking someone's health just 'cause they want to keep up with the party vibes .

I've been to places in Ibiza that offer free water on demand, and it makes all the difference. The vibe is so much more chill, you know? It's like, "Hey, I can get a drink and stay hydrated, no problem!" Not having to worry about money or dehydration takes away from the overall experience.

I'm not sure why NYC's laws are so vague on this one, but it's about time something gets changed . Advocates are making some solid points about harm reduction and patron safety, and I gotta respect that . Fingers crossed they get their act together and we see some change soon

they're gonna make bars give away water for free? seems like a no-brainer to me... dehydration can be super bad, especially with all the dancing and drinking that goes on in clubs gotta respect people's health more than making a quick buck

I'm all for this change ! I mean, it makes total sense that bars and clubs need to be offering free water, especially considering how many times I've seen people get dehydrated and then end up paying through the nose just to grab a bottle of water. It's crazy that some places charge like $5 or more for a drink that's basically just water! The fact that some cities like San Francisco are already doing it by law is a big win, so I'm hoping NYC will get on board soon too . As a DJ and someone who's been to my fair share of raves, I know how easily dehydration can sneak up on you, especially when you're dancing all night. It's time for bars and clubs to step up their game and prioritize people's health and safety .

this is a no-brainer, right? like, how can we expect people to have a good time if they're worried about dehydration on top of the usual worries? it's just basic human decency, you know? bars and clubs should be responsible for making sure their customers are safe and happy. offering free water is not a huge ask, it's just a sign that they care about what's going on behind the counter.

and honestly, $5 to $10 per bottle is crazy talk. who pays that for water? it's like they're trying to make money off people's basic needs or something. i'm all for venues having some rules and regulations in place, but this one just feels obvious. anyone can see the benefits of providing free water, from reducing emergencies to just making sure customers have a better time. so yeah, let's make it happen

omg yessss this is such a great idea!!! i mean who needs beer when u can have FREE WATER lol but seriously its so sad that ppl have to pay like 5-10 bucks for water at bars. dehydration can literally happen in seconds and im all about prioritizing our health and safety. plus having free water stations would be super inclusive for everyone, especially those with dietary restrictions or who just need a drink of water mid-set. lets get those regulations passed ASAP!

You know what really got me thinking about this? It's not just about the money; it's about basic human dignity . We're all consenting adults, but when we're out having a good time, do we really need to worry about getting dehydrated and potentially ruining our night (and our lives)? I mean, think about it – in a city like New York where you can get anything you want 24/7, why should dehydration be the one thing that's not covered? It's all about creating an environment where people feel safe and cared for, you know? And if we can do that by just offering free water stations, then I say let's do it .

It's about time someone takes a stand on this . I mean, come on, it's just water! It can't be that hard for bars to offer some free water options. I've been to clubs and seen people paying like $8 for a bottle of water, it's outrageous . And let's not forget about the health risks of dehydration, especially when you're already drinking . I think this petition is a great idea, and if more people sign on, maybe we'll see some changes soon . It's not just about providing free water, it's about showing that the city cares about its citizens' well-being .

OMG u guys, this is so needed!! I've been to those bars where they charge like 5 bucks a bottle and you're literally dying inside It's not just about being a responsible drinker, it's about your health! And if other cities can do it no problem then why can't NYC? I mean San Francisco and Ibiza have it down pat and their party scenes are still lit I'm all for this petition, it's time we take care of ourselves and each other

OMG, $5-$10 per bottle? Like, what's next? Charging people to breathe? Free water is like, basic human rights, fam! I mean, can you imagine if bars started charging for air conditioning or toilets? It's about time the city steps up and makes these places safer. And honestly, I'm all for illuminated signs and emergency protocols – it's not rocket science, right? Just think of all the times people have ended up in the ER because they didn't drink enough water while partying... talk about a wild ride! The petition is definitely gaining traction, and if you ask me, it's high time these bars started prioritizing patron safety over profits.

The fact that people need to petition for something as basic as having access to free water while drinking is kinda crazy . I mean, it's like we're still living in a world where dehydration can lead to serious health issues. But at the same time, I get why bars and clubs are hesitant to just start offering free water out of the goodness of their hearts - they've got costs to cover and all that.

It makes sense that there would be some sort of regulation in place to make sure places like this aren't taking advantage of people's vulnerabilities. It's not about wanting to control every aspect of nightlife, but more about making sure everyone can enjoy themselves without putting their health at risk.

I'm actually kinda glad that some other cities are already doing this - it's a good reminder that there are always ways to improve our communities and make them safer for everyone. And if we're being honest, it's also pretty annoying when you're out at a bar and you see the price of water is like $5 or something . It just feels weird that people can't even get a drink of water without breaking the bank.

"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." ~ Edmund Burke This petition is like a breath of fresh air! Can't believe some bars still charge crazy prices for water. It's just basic human decency, ya know? Need change ASAP

the fact that some ppl have to pay $5-$10 just for a bottle of water is crazy it should be a basic human right to stay hydrated while having a good time out in nyc, especially with all the overpriced drinks being sold at bars and clubs, i think regulating venues to provide free water stations is a no-brainer the city's nightlife scene needs to take responsibility for its patrons' well-being and make some changes to ensure ppl don't get sick or dehydrated while trying to have fun

I'm totally down with this idea ! I mean, who doesn't want to be able to grab a quick glass of water mid-dance party without breaking the bank ? It's crazy that some places charge upwards of $5-$10 for just a bottle of water – what's up with that?!

As someone who's always on the lookout for good design and layout, I think this could be a game-changer for nightlife in NYC. Just imagine having clear signage and easy access to free water stations – it's all about creating a safer and more welcoming environment for everyone ! Plus, think of the potential health benefits – less dehydration-related issues means happy, healthy partygoers !

It's also awesome that people like Peter Kerre are speaking out about these issues. We need more advocates like him who care about making nightlife safer and more sustainable . Fingers crossed that this petition gains enough momentum to lead to some real change in the near future !