December STRONG Newsletter

The most effective way to stop impaired driving is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Use the following tips when talking with your kids about drunk and drug-impaired driving.

Don’t Wait for the “Right” Time—It’s always a good time to talk to your kids about the dangers of impaired driving. Here are some common situations you can take advantage of to discuss drunk and drug-impaired driving:

• When your child asks to borrow the car.
• When you’re at the dinner table together.
• When your child asks if he or she can ride with a friend to school/a concert/a party.
• When you’re running weekend errands.
• When you’re at the grocery store; and
• When you and your child are in the car together.

Reinforce Expectations—Make sure your children know what you expect from them when it comes to impaired driving. Let them know it’s never okay to get behind the wheel of a motor vehicle while under the influence, and that getting in a car with someone who has been drinking or using drugs is also dangerous.

Help Them Build an Exit Plan—Some kids may not know what to do if a friend or family member who is under the influence of alcohol or other drugs offers them a ride. Explain to your child that it’s okay to say no and help them think through an exit strategy. For example, you can suggest:

• Calling a rideshare service or taxi.
• Calling a relative or friend for a ride home.
• Staying the night at their current location; and
• Convincing the person under the influence not to drive. Mention that drunk and drug-impaired driving is illegal and unsafe and suggest they find another way home.

Show Them You Care—Kids are more likely to listen when they know you’re on their side. Make sure they know that you’re talking to them about impaired driving because you care about their safety, not because you assume they would ever drive drunk or drug impaired.

Video by Safeandsober.org

Article by SAMHSA

• Secure Medications and Alcoholic Beverages: This not only prevents accidental ingestions but also discourages underage drinking. Consider using locked cabinets or special storage areas to keep these items out of reach.
• Alcohol Free Celebrations: Embracing alcohol-free celebrations can promote inclusivity and well-being. Offer a variety of creative non-alcoholic beverages, like mocktails or festive punches, that are both delicious and fun. Incorporate games, music, and storytelling to connect and create lasting memories without the need for alcohol.
• Creating a Safe and Welcoming Environment: As a host, your goal is to create a warm and inclusive environment. Offer non-alcoholic drink options and have a plan in place for guests who may need assistance getting home safely.

Creating a Safe Home for the Holidays (informedfamilies.org)-Informed Families Catalyst

As we begin planning for our 10th and final of year of funding and we look towards the future of Pleasantville STRONG, we invite parents from BRS, PMS and PHS to help us create a sustainability plan to ensure the continuation of our mission. Please reach out if you would like to be part of this focus group. Email: pvillestrong@pleasantville-ny.gov if interested.

For more information on these events, or if you're Interested in joining this important conversation,

please email pvillestrong@pleasantville-ny.gov