With an increase in teenage binge drinking during ball season, Tauranga Safe City and ALAC are currently rolling out a campaign aimed at parents and their responsibilities. The campaign can be seen on the back of the Bay Hopper, as well as in off licenses and supermarkets. Do your bit – sit down and map out an action plan with YOUR teen!

As the Western Bay of Plenty ball season in full flight, it’s important to set safe boundaries that both you and your child are comfortable with. Not only do you have the stress of helping pick the perfect dress or the sharpest tux, you have the worry of alcohol, drugs and a whole lot of what ifs.

The biggest worry is the growing acceptance of teenagers drinking at pre and after balls. Alcohol is an easily accessed, socially common product and is often easy to forget that it’s a depressant drug that can have serious side effects. While it is difficult to stop teenagers from drinking you can be prepared and set yourselves an action plan.

Let your teen know that if things get out of control at the party, you will always arrange for them to get home safely. Talk about things that might happen – perhaps there is violence or drugs at the party or they feel threatened or frightened.

If you are not picking your child up personally, make sure they have spare money for a taxi or have an alternative ride arranged.

Ensure they have money on their cellphone in case they need to call you, or someone else in an emergency.

For more information on Parties click here