Tulsa County Urges Parents to Talk to Teens About Holiday Alcohol Risks
The Regional Prevention Coordinator program in Tulsa County is urging parents to discuss the risks of underage drinking with their children. The initiative comes as local statistics show alarming rates of alcohol use among teens. In 2014, 15.7% of 8th graders and 40.5% of 12th graders reported alcohol use within the last 30 days.
Alcohol is the most commonly used substance among youth in the U.S. The holidays pose a particular risk, as teens may have easier access to alcohol at home. The Regional Prevention Coordinator program advises parents to lock up alcohol and medicine when children are present.
Parents are the primary influence on their children's decisions about alcohol. The program encourages parents to set a good example by knowing their limits and never providing alcohol or a place to drink for underage persons. On an average December day in the U.S., approximately 11,000 youth try alcohol for the first time. The program aims to reduce these numbers by promoting open communication and responsible behavior.
The Regional Prevention Coordinator program in Tulsa County is dedicated to preventing underage drinking. By following their guidelines, parents can significantly influence their children's decisions about alcohol. Together, we can reduce the number of youth who start drinking during the holidays and throughout the year.
