Editor:
    On behalf of the Rivers Region Substance Abuse Action Team, we would like to thank the parents who have given so much to their children on their journey toward graduation. We would also like to congratulate the seniors for all that you have accomplished in the last few years. 
    The Rivers Region Action Team is coordinated by Communities Promoting Health Coalition, a program of PROP, the People’s Regional Opportunity Program, and is comprised of concerned citizens, police officers, parents, substance abuse prevention specialists, and teachers and staff from local schools and colleges. We meet monthly to discuss substance abuse issues in the community, and to plan and implement prevention activities.
    While we recognize that this is an exciting time for both parents and young adults, we want to remind you of the challenges that this time of year can present. We know that young adults will be attending gatherings in the upcoming weeks to celebrate their graduations, and we hope they create wonderful memories at these events. However, with increased celebrations comes increased risk for underage drinking.
    For Parents:
    While some parents may feel more comfortable hosting a party at their own homes where they are sure that teens will not drive after consuming alcohol, the other risks involved are equally dangerous. For example:
•    Alcohol is associated more closely with crimes of sexual violence than any other drug (CASA, 1999).
•    Alcohol poisoning is a serious risk that can occur when drinking.
•    It is illegal for an adult to provide alcohol to a minor or to provide a place for minors to consume alcohol. Penalties include fines up to $2,000 and up to one year in jail. Should a minor get hurt, the furnishing adult can be liable up to $250,000 plus medical expenses
 We urge you to take these laws and the health of our teens seriously, and to help prevent underage drinking during this graduation season. Here are some tips to navigate these challenges with your teen:
•    Have a conversation with your teen regarding the risks of underage drinking
•    If your teen wants to attend a party at a friends’ house, call the parents to make sure alcohol will not be available
•    Host a substance free party or event for your teen and his/her friends
•    Check in with your teen when he/she comes home after being out   
•    If you discover that your son/daughter has broken a rule, make sure to follow through with the consequences
    For Graduates:
    Did you know?
•    25 percent of sexually active teens reported doing more sexually than they had planned because they had been drinking or using drugs. (Kaiser Foundation)
•    In Maine, minors (anyone under the age of 21) may not purchase, consume, or possess alcohol. Penalties range from $200 to $600. Local law enforcement are increasing their enforcement efforts of these laws during the graduation and summer season.
•    It is illegal for a minor to transport alcohol in a motor vehicle under the minor’s control, penalties include fines up to $500 and driver’s license suspension up to one year.
    Here are some tips for keeping yourself safe this graduation season:
•    Remember: while it may seem like all of your peers drink, more than half of them do not drink alcohol
•    Spend more time with friends that don’t drink
•    Rehearse saying “no thanks” when offered a drink you don’t want
    We hope that the tips above will be helpful in keeping everyone safe while having fun celebrating the accomplishments of our graduating seniors.
The Rivers Region Substance Abuse Action Team