Ohio Authorities Urge Safety Ahead of Prom and Graduation Season to Prevent Alcohol and Cannabis-Related Incidents
As prom and graduation season approaches, Ohio officials are ramping up efforts to ensure these milestone celebrations remain memorable for the right reasons. The Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of Liquor Control and Division of Cannabis Control are calling on communities to take proactive steps to prevent alcohol- and marijuana-related incidents among teens.
The initiative comes as data from the Ohio Department of Public Safety reveals alarming statistics. Last year, there were 149 OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired)-related traffic crashes involving drivers aged 15 to 20 during April and May alone. Of these crashes, 10 resulted in serious injuries. Over the entire year, 934 OVI-related crashes occurred in this age group, with 72 fatalities and 89 serious injuries.
“Prom and graduation should be remembered for celebration, not tragedy,” said Col. Charles Jones, patrol superintendent. “Every choice matters. When we work together and make responsible decisions, we can keep our young people safe and ensure these milestones remain positive, lasting memories.”
A Shared Responsibility
Authorities emphasize that preventing underage drinking and cannabis use is a shared responsibility. Liquor permit holders are legally obligated to ensure they do not sell alcohol to minors. To support this, the Ohio Investigative Unit offers a free Alcohol Server Knowledge course, which covers current rules, best practices, and identification verification techniques.
Jackie DeGenova, superintendent of the Division of Liquor Control, stressed the importance of these measures. “Permit holders play a critical role in preventing dangerous incidents that can result from underage alcohol consumption,” she said. “By verifying customers are 21 and over, they can eliminate opportunities for illegal purchases and reduce the risks facing young people, especially during upcoming prom and graduation celebrations as well as throughout the summer.”
Community members are also encouraged to play a part in reducing risks. Parents, in particular, can have a significant influence on their teens’ decisions. According to the National Institutes of Health and the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, consistent communication about drugs and alcohol can greatly impact teens’ choices.
Resources for Parents
To assist parents in these conversations, Ohio authorities have provided resources on how to talk to teens about alcohol and cannabis use. Open and honest discussions can help teens understand the dangers of impaired driving and make safer choices during celebratory events.
The joint effort by Ohio agencies aims to create an environment where teens can enjoy these milestones without the shadow of preventable tragedies. As Col. Jones noted, “Prom and graduation should be remembered for celebration, not tragedy.”
— Reported by Nexio News
