This month, Linn Together has launched a “Count it! Lock it up” campaign to encourage parents to keep kids safe from alcohol.
Many Linn County youth report that it’s not difficult to get alcohol. In fact, 73% of eleventh graders, 40% of eighth graders, and 18% of sixth graders indicate that it’s “very easy” or “easy” to obtain beer, wine, or liquor (2010 Oregon Student Wellness Survey). A common way for youth to obtain alcohol is from home, with or without permission.
If you have alcohol in your home, please keep track of it. Know how much you have at all times. If possible, keep alcohol locked in a closet, cabinet, safe, or other locked location. Get rid of alcohol during times that your kids will be home alone. You may even want to consider having an alcohol-free home during your children’s pre-teen and teen years.
Youth who begin drinking alcohol before the age of 15 are five times more likely than those who start after 21 to develop alcohol problems (Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration). Help keep your kids safe from alcohol – Count it! Lock it up! Please visit www.linntogether.org for more suggestions.