Complete separation between firearms and alcohol consumption is a very good general rule. Like any general rule there will be occasional exceptions.]
While in Vietnam I spent a fair amount of time in the bush on combat operations or at outlying operating bases subject to frequent attacks. We also received supplies from time to time which might include fresh food and cooked meals, ice cream, or enough beer for everyone to have a couple of cans. We appreciated those items, but we continued carrying fully-loaded weapons (including full-auto, grenade launchers, mines, explosives, etc). In the interests of maintaining morale and commitment to task I think this was an appropriate course, and a necessary exception to the general rules.
Most of my law enforcement career was with agencies having policies dictating always being armed and always on duty (although temporarily relieved from active performance of duty). Not unusual while off-duty to attend social functions including alcoholic beverages, and most of us enjoyed without excess. At least arguably, another exception to the general rules.
Much of the time I was required to be on-call 24 hours per day and respond as needed. I saw no need to completely deprive myself of a private life and normal activities, only to remain sufficiently capable of safely performing necessary duties. Again, at least arguably a reasonable exception to the general rules.
Now I'm retired. I very rarely go to public bars, but may have a beer or wine with a meal, and if I choose to stop by one of my private clubs while out and about for the day I do so. I consider leaving a firearm in an unattended vehicle to be avoided if at all possible, probably far more likely to result in danger or harm than simply maintaining maximum control myself. Some might argue that this is avoidable, thus not a valid exception to the general rules, and they are entitled to their opinions.
Like it or not, alcoholic beverages are a part of life and have been for about 10,000 years of human history. The necessity for self-defense in modern society is (in my opinion) beyond doubt. The responsible person must balance realities and common sense, and stand ready to accept the consequences of every decision.
Zero tolerance standards and policies are little more than an excuse to avoid decision making, reality, common sense, and personal responsibility.
OK, fire away!
