Flint Township View

State Police offers tips for a Safe Prom Season




FLINT TWP — As Carman- Ainsworth students head to Lansing Saturday for their prom, the Michigan State Police (MSP) is advising them and all prom-goers to make smart decisions and take extra precaution to stay safe while celebrating.

“Prom is an exciting time for high school students and we want to encourage teens to have fun by making good choices,” said Community Service Trooper Mark Burch, Tri City Post. “Students should know the consequences of underage drinking. There are legal ramifications, but most importantly, you can get yourself or someone else seriously injured or killed.”

Not only is it illegal for anyone under 21 to have alcohol in their system, but it is illegal for someone under 21 to have alcohol in their possession at any time, regardless of whether they’ve consumed it. The consequences of underage drinking can be an arrest for Minor In Possession (MIP) or for Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) if a teen chooses to drive. Additionally, many employers, colleges and military recruiters take alcohol-related offenses into consideration when hiring or accepting applications.

Parents play an important role in keeping their teen safe on prom night. Parents are encouraged to talk to their child about evening plans and know how to get in contact with him/her. Parents should confirm details of parties with other adults, making sure alcohol will not be present at any gathering their child will be attending. Keep pertinent phone numbers and addresses on hand for any location their child is visiting and arrange for safe transportation.

Here are some tips that can help keep prom night safe:

Avoid alcohol, tobacco and drugs.

Abstain from sexual activity.

Don’t drink and drive.

Don’t get into a car with an intoxicated driver.

Wear a seat belt at all times while traveling in an automobile.

If hiring a limo service, make sure the service is properly licensed with the state of Michigan.

Watch out for your date and others around you.

Get directions to the location of the prom or other gatherings.

Keep parents or guardians informed of your whereabouts.


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