GASP | Safe Homes Network

Safe Homes Network

The end of the school year is a time of celebration for high school students, especially juniors and seniors who are planning prom and graduation parties. Groton adults have a responsibility to ensure those celebrations are safe and happy occasions by preventing underage drinking.

Safe Homes is a parent pledge program designed to help create a safe environment for children by raising awareness about alcohol and other drug and substance abuse among young people, and encouraging parents to join together to address the problem. Rather than worrying alone, parents can unite to do something positive and proactive. We are asking parents to band together and pledge to prevent underage drinking.

The GASP Coalition and the Groton community fervently hopes that this season is safe for all our teens. We are asking that you be especially vigilant about how and where your junior or senior is celebrating. When everyone is able to fully participate, events of celebration become special memories for your teens and their families.

YOUR TEEN NEEDS YOUR HELP TO STAY SAFE AND HEALTHY.

REINFORCE YOUR EXPECTATIONS. You’ve set rules and established the consequences. But be clear – drinking or drug use remains unacceptable. Being an upperclassman has privileges, but it also has responsibilities.

ENCOURAGE YOUR TEEN TO MAKE EACH MOMENT COUNT. Your teens only get one senior year. Let them know you don’t want them to miss out because of bad choices.

PROVIDE SAFE ALTERNATIVES. Plan chaperoned alcohol-free parties. Many families have been able to honor their children’s prom and graduation successfully without introducing champagne or any other alcoholic beverage into the mix. Keeping parties small allows the parent host to be in control of the event.

SET A GOOD EXAMPLE. Do not let teens drink or use marijuana under your supervision. Serving or providing alcohol to underage guests or allowing them to drink alcohol in your home or any other property you control is against the law.

Ledge Light Health District | 943 North Rd. Groton, CT 06340 | 860.448.4882