Keep Your Graduation Party Safe
By Susan L. Jenkins, BRiDGES
During prom and graduation season, some parents unknowingly place the safety of their children, their children’s friends, and their home at risk by providing alcohol for the teens at parties in their home. Parents may believe they are keeping the teens “safe” by letting them drink in the home, thus preventing them from drinking and driving. Hosting a party for teenagers where alcohol is provided, or knowingly allowing teens to drink in your home is not only illegal but can be costly, even deadly, to everyone involved.
Although the teens may not be driving, there are other hazards to consider. These include alcohol overdose; asphyxiation after vomiting; impulsive and risk taking behaviors leading to accidents and injuries; and unsafe sexual practices. In addition, one never knows what other medications a teen might be taking either by prescription or over the counter. Any drinking may be contraindicated with these medications.
When parents serve alcohol to teens in their home, in reality what they are doing is helping their kids feel comfortable with alcohol. This practice sends a mixed message. Teens believe that if it’s okay to drink at home, it’s okay to drink, even if it is illegal. The reality is that the consequences can be overwhelming, and in extreme cases, fatal.
If your teen is invited to a party, it is important to communicate with your child and the host regarding your expectations. Find out from the other parent if drinking is going to be allowed. Find out what level of supervision will be provided. Will the parents be home or is an older sibling in charge. Some parties get out of hand because the partying is taking place in a site far from the house and the supervision, or hordes of young people show up who were not invited. With adequate adult supervision, these problems can be handled.
“Parents Who Host Lost The Most: Don’t Be a Party to Teenage Drinking” public awareness campaign was developed by Ohio’s Drug Free Action Alliance and is sponsored locally by Madison County’s Promise-The Alliance for Youth and BRiDGES, the Madison County Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse, Inc. If you have any questions or concerns about keeping your teen safe this season, please give us a call at 697-3947. Underage drinking is not a minor problem.
