Tips for Parents
Know who your child is attending the prom with and discuss the events for pre and post prom parties with the other parents.
Discuss the dangers of drinking and driving. Florida law has a zero tolerance law for drivers under 21. This means any driver under the age of 21 that is stopped by law enforcement and has a blood alcohol level of .02 or higher will automatically have their Florida driver’s license suspended for 6 months. The .02 limit really means that you cannot have a single drink and drive. And that's the idea!
Talk with your child about the dangers of club drugs, warning signs and who to notify for assistance.
Pre-plan and role-play answers that your child can use to get out of uncomfortable situations (such as offered alcohol, getting a ride from an intoxicated driver, unwanted sexual advances, etc.)
Discuss guidelines and a curfew. Discuss the consequences of violating these rules.
Discuss travel plans, use a reputable limousine service that will not allow a person to bring, serve or introduce alcohol into the vehicle.
Know who is driving to the prom and who will be a passenger. Limit the number of passengers to increase safety and reduce driver distractions.
Know the location of post prom parties and who is sponsoring them.
Talk to your teenager about the serious dangers and consequences of underage drinking and driving.
If your child’s’ plans change, confirm the change with the parents of other children.
Remind your child that you are there for them, if they need a ride home or to an after prom affair.
Tips for Teens
Alcohol is illegal for persons under the age of twenty-one. Underage drinking is illegal and can result in loss of your license, arrest, injury, or worse!
Don’t let friends’ drink and drive.
Plan ahead: make sure you have a safe plan for prom night.
Discuss your plans with your friends; remind each other about responsible decision-making and confronting peer pressure.
Do not accept any drinks from someone you do not know. If you leave your drink, discard it and get a new one.
Do not leave your possessions unattended.
Learn the warning signs for alcohol poisoning and drug intoxication, call 9-1-1 for assistance and immediate treatment.
Take extra money or have a responsible person available for transportation for a safe ride home or in case an emergency arises.
Remember to charge you cell phone and have it with you - know where you are and where you are going.
Trust your instincts, if you feel endangered or uncomfortable, leave immediately.
Intoxication by alcohol or drugs can lead to poor judgment and dangerous situations.
Remember to contact your parents if your plans change.
Practice and discuss answers you can use to get out of uncomfortable situations
Do not allow anyone in your car or limo that has drugs or weapons. It is dangerous and everyone in the car is at risk of getting arrested.
It is illegal to alter your driver's license or any other form of government identification.
Tampa Police Department - Crime Prevention
www.tampagov.net/neighborhoodwatch
