Prom season is upon us. In the next few weeks our high schools, as well as private schools, will have the wonderful tradition of senior prom. Unfortunately, a popular custom during prom season is to drink alcohol, drink to excess, and party at the Jersey Shore. We also have the added risk of other drug use such as marijuana and pain killers.
We care about our teens, our families, and friends. The WW-P Municipal Alliance for the Prevention of Alcoholism & Drug Abuse is encouraging all high school students to stay safe and sober, and asking parents to talk to their teens, and not to serve or allow alcohol at parties or during trips to the shore.
“Parents Who Host, Lose the Most: Don’t be a Party to Teenage Drinking” is a national campaign that is taking place right here in our community. Our message to parents and teenagers is to not serve or allow alcohol use before, at, or after prom, as well as the ever-popular beach house weekends.
Plainsboro Township Police Chief Guy Armour emphasized that parents who “allow these parties to be held on their property or supply alcohol to those who are underage are opening themselves up to legal consequences and possibly civil financial liabilities.”
West Windsor Township Police Chief, Joseph Pica added, “As we enter prom season, I think that it is important that everyone knows that after-prom house parties that include alcohol consumption will not be condoned by the police and should not be allowed by the parents.”
The WW-P Alliance is funded by the NJ Governor’s Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse with local funding from both West Windsor and Plainsboro townships. The alliance has more than 20 members including parents, police, student assistance counselors, prevention organizations, and residents. For more information visit www.wwpalliance.org.
Fact #1. It is illegal in New Jersey to serve alcohol to anyone under the legal drinking age of 21.
Fact #2. It is illegal in New Jersey to make your home or property available for the purpose of allowing anyone who is under the legal drinking age of 21 a place to consume alcohol.
Fact #3. In New Jersey, any person who serves or makes alcohol available to a person under the legal drinking age of 21 is subject to a $1,000 fine and up to 180 days of jail per person served. Parents can be held civilly liable even if they are not present during the time of the party.
Parent Party Tips
• If you are going away for a few days, know that word will travel fast among teens. Alert the police that you will be out of town so they can check your home.
• Set rules ahead of time such as no alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs. Set a start and end time for the party.
• Make sure you are home and refuse to supply alcohol or allow underage drinking in your home or on your property.
• Put your phone number on the invitation and welcome calls from parents.
• Let attendees know that if they leave the party, they cannot come back.
• Make regular and unobtrusive visits to the party area with sensitivity to teens’ needs for privacy and independence.
• Talk to other parents about not providing alcohol when hosting parties.
Marcia Fleres
Contact the WW-P Alliance: E-mail: info@wwpAlliance.org Website: www.wwpAlliance.org
