Prevention First NY

Posted by Gary Silverman 
 

ImageLuisa Parker and Lynn Baron of Prevention Frist NY

Lynn Baron and Luisa Parker of Prevention First NY came and spoke with us about their efforts to curb the consumption of alcohol by minors in Sullivan County.

This group works with all 8 school districts in the county to collect data and formalize environmental strategies to prevent teenage drinking.  Their goal is to promote a public health model in the community.

Their data indicates that in 2011 the alcohol rate amongst minors  was 33%.  Drinking rates go up incrementally from grades 10th – 12th.  The data further indicates that students do not use fake IDs or get alcohol at bars and restaurants, but they are drinking in homes.  24% indicated that the drinking occurs at parties.  They approached the problem through the Social Host Ordinance.  This states that a person 18 or over that hosts a party which allows alcohol will be held responsible.  There have been only two arrests under this law since 2012.  Since this past December there have been 4 billboards created, and other promotional items created, to promote the idea that those over 18 years of age can be held liable if a minor drinks at their home and is harmed or causes harm.

Underage drinking costs billions and accounts for more youth deaths than any other drug.  It impacts brain development and causes considerable damage including memory loss.

The organization is currently pushing to get their message promoted through Time Warner Cable.  They also had their first sticker shock campaign at the Monticello Beer Store and will be doing the same in Liberty soon.  Sticker shock is a  program in which a group of youths go into a beer store and cover the cases of beer with stickers reminding  buyers of the liability associated with the serving of beer to minors.

The second part of this effort is to work with the police to patrol and locate parties with underage drinking and disperse them.  The program is offering some extra financial assistance to have extra officers.

If you are a parent or guardian hosting a party you can:

  • Refuse to supply alcohol to anyone under 21
  • Be at home when your teen has a party
  • Make sure alcohol is not brought into your home or property by your teen’s friends.
  • Talk to other parents about not providing alcohol at events your child will be attending.
  • Create alcohol-fee opportunities and activities in your home so teens feel welcome.
  • Report underage drinking to local law enforcement.