Verde Valley AZ (May 24, 2018) – With graduation season upon us, Arizona SADD would like to remind teens and their parents to celebrate safely.
While celebrations are a fun part of life’s milestones, it is important for parents to understand the law as it relates to providing alcohol to underage persons. “All too often we have parents who feel they are doing the right thing by providing alcohol in their home to their teen and their friends, and taking the keys so teens can’t drive after they’ve been drinking,” say Jessica Hugdahl, Arizona SADD State Director. “It is important for them to understand that this is illegal and they could face criminal and civil sanctions if underage persons are consuming alcohol on their property.”
Underage drinkers are more likely to engage in risky behaviors or become victims due to vulnerability. The effects of alcohol impair judgement and coordination, often resulting in poor decision-making. Communication and planning is key to helping your teen make safe and choices.
Tips for keeping your teen safe on graduation night:
- Communicate clear expectations with them and their friends who may be hosting parties
- Talk with them about the risks of drugs and alcohol use
- Know who they will be with and where
- Have pre-established times for them to check-in with you
- Make sure they always buckle up in any vehicle
- Don’t rent hotel rooms for their after graduation parties
- Remind them to never get in the car with anyone who is under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Get involved by volunteering to supervise graduation events
- Remind them of existing curfews
- Stay up until they arrive home safely
Open communication between parents and teens regarding behaviors and expectations can make a difference in preventing impaired driving, drug/alcohol use, and other destructive decisions. Take a few minutes to have a conversation with your teen to keep them safe this graduation season.
About SADD
For almost 40 years, SADD, the nation’s premier youth health & safety organization has worked to empower teens, engage parents, mobilize communities, and change lives around the issues of traffic safety, substance abuse, and personal health and safety. Through a national network of peer-led chapters in middle schools, high schools and colleges, SADD equips our students with the resources they need to advocate for change on their campuses and in their communities. Join the movement by visiting www.sadd.org, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram.