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The Holidays Offer Risky Times For Your Children

Although many think of graduation or prom night as the biggest night for underage drinking, the Clearwater Substance Abuse Workgroup (CSAW) reports that the latest Mothers Against Drunk Driving newsletter calls the night before Thanksgiving “the biggest night for underage drinking.” "The fridge and the liquor cabinets are stocked, parents are distracted by relatives and dinner preparations, and older siblings or college-age friends are around." says the November newsletter.

Members of the local Clearwater Substance Abuse Workgroup (CSAW) think it’s important for parents and youth to know that they can both be charged for allowing minors to possess alcohol on private property. A new ordinance recently enacted by the Orofino City Council makes it illegal to host a party where someone under the age of twenty-one years is in possession of, is consuming, or is under the influence of an alcoholic beverage. Although it is a misdemeanor, violation of the law is punishable by a fine up to one thousand dollars ($1,000) and imprisonment in the county jail not to exceed six (6) months.

Orofino Police Chief Jeff Wilson says the Police Department has a zero tolerance policy regarding underage drinking and the hosting of such activities. "The hosting of underage drinking parties is viewed by the Police Department as an extremely serious offense, and we are determined to aggressively and thoroughly investigate any and all crimes relating to underage drinking.”

CSAW offer the following tips:
· Talk to your kids about the seriousness of underage drinking
· Set clear rules
· Plan for family activities over Thanksgiving weekend
(including Wednesday night)
· Educate your kids about the law
· Know where they are
· Offer to “host” a safe party at your house, so you can monitor what they are doing

For more tips and information about how to talk to your kids about underage drinking visit our Educational Articles/Links Page.