As we enter the last days of school and graduation parties, remember to be safe.
We don't want a time of celebration to become a tragedy. The Sheriff's Office, Hubbard County Youth Drug and Alcohol Task Force and County Attorney's Office have teamed up to bring awareness to the consequences of providing alcohol to an underage person.
The county passed a Social Host Ordinance last fall making it illegal to provide alcohol to underage individuals or knowingly host a gathering where those individuals are drinking alcohol. The ordinance also spells out the possibility of criminal prosecution if such an event occurs.
We want to reiterate the advice they are providing to parents throughout the county.
n Limit your guest list. Avoid having an "open" party where anyone is welcome to just drop by.
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n Host an afternoon or early evening party and have a clear starting and ending time for the event.
n Let parents of other graduates know you will be actively supervising the party and that you welcome phone calls from them.
n Be clear with your graduate and other underage guests on what is acceptable behavior including no alcohol, drugs, tobacco, etc.
n If a youth arrives under the influence of alcohol or drugs, call the parents and get them home safely.
n Secure all alcohol, prescription and over-the-counter medications, guns and other items that may pose danger if accessed by others.
n Know your teen's schedule for the evening, who they will be with and who will be driving. Keep in contact with them during the evening by calling or texting them. And offer to be available if they need you if they end up in a possible dangerous situation, no questions asked.
This is the time of year for celebration but please remove the alcohol if those under 21 will be present. The consequences are not worth it.
