Summer is a time for teens to take a break from school responsibilities and spend their days with friends and build relationships. However, the fast approaching nice weather and extra time can lead to an increase in alcohol consumption among underage individuals. According to Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD)  (www.sadd.org), three out of every four students (75%) have consumed alcohol, more than just a few sips, by the end of high school. SADD also reports that motor vehicle crashes remain the number one cause of death among youth ages 15-20.

In order to address this concern in our own community, the Steuben County Sheriff’s Department has developed a program called “Party Patrol,” with the goal of increasing patrolling of officers looking for parties and underage drinking as the weather improves. The program is a direct result of a grant from the state Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services, and also includes a tip line for those who would like to report underage drinking in the community. The grant money will also be used by the county Council on Addictions and Substance Abuse for educational purposes. The New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS) has implemented similar programs throughout the state by partnering with nearby counties to conduct strategies such as compliance checks, undercover operations, and law enforcement training. For more information regarding such services in our community, please dial 2-1-1, or chat online with a 2-1-1 Helpline specialist.

SADD is a peer-to-peer education, prevention, and activism organization dedicated to preventing destructive decisions, particularly underage drinking, other drug use, risky and impaired driving, teen violence, and teen suicide.

2-1-1 Helpline is a free and confidential information and referral service that connects individuals with resources and volunteer opportunities in our community. 2-1-1 Helpline directs those in need to hundreds of local human service agencies, government programs, and self-help and support groups. Callers speak directly with our information and referral specialists Monday - Friday, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm, with crisis referral 24 hours/day, 7 days/week. Dial 2-1-1 or search www.211helpline.org.  2-1-1 Helpline is a program of IHS (www.ihsnet.org).