LYME-OLD LYME — The Winter Ball and all milestone celebrations are amazing events where memories are made for our teenagers. They also offer unique opportunities for open conversation with teens about alcohol/other drugs and the risks they pose for individual and group safety.
The best thing parents and other adults can do in an adolescent’s life is to talk often and early with an open mind and clear rules and expectations.
The Lyme-Old Lyme Prevention Coalition is reaching out to students, parents, and other adults to reinforce the legal and safety consequences of underage drinking and marijuana use. Too often, communities across the US have seen this time of celebration turn into a time of tragedy.
Criminal charges related to underage drinking can change a person’s life. Even worse, serious injury or death can turn what should be a wonderful memory into a tragic end.
We want our kids to have a great time but also to celebrate drug- and alcohol-free. We would like them to have fun safely and not see them (or you!) get into legal trouble that could have a long-term effect.
Alcohol/Marijuana—Teens should know that buying or possessing alcohol or marijuana under the age of 21 can result in multiple, serious criminal charges. It may prevent them from being able to have a driver’s license
DUI—A DUI conviction could mean the loss of a driver’s license, and a fine.
Parents—Parents and other adults can play a role to help ensure teens’ safety. Do not provide alcohol to anyone under the age of 21, even in your own home. It is ILLEGAL in Connecticut. Charges carry a heavy fine and violators must appear in court. Do not take the chance.
Police Patrols—Police officers will be patrolling during the evening of the Winter Ball and are hoping not to find drivers exhibiting signs of impairment. Parents are urged to remind your kids not to ruin the night by getting a DUI, or much worse. If possible, arrange for rides both ways with a parent and have a safety plan in place.
We have one goal in mind: keeping our young people safe. There is no desire to diminish the fun of the evening nor make it harder to celebrate. Our universal wish is that your kids come home.
Please, be our partners in this effort and talk openly and honestly with them about the dangers of substance use and misuse.
For more information and resources, contact Alli Behnke, Prevention Coordinator at LYSB, [email protected] www.lysb.org/prevention
Alli Behnke
About the Author: Alli Behnke, MSW, MA is the Prevention Coordinator at Lymes’ Youth Service Bureau. She has been a Social Worker for 20 years working in the fields of prevention, therapy, youth leadership, and health coaching. Alli believes strongly in providing accurate information, education, and tools for success when empowering the Lyme/Old Lyme Prevention Coalition and REACH Youth Coalition to work together on strengths-based campaigns. The Coalitions address substance abuse and other risky behaviors challenging our youth and families. Contact her at [email protected] or visit www.lysb.org to become involved in this important community work.