Keep Your Holiday a Happy One

With alcohol consumption and related accidents at a high during the holidays, The Bedford/Lewisboro/Pound Ridge Drug Abuse Prevention Council (DAPC) encourages community members to review the tips below to keep your family’s celebrations safe:

• Discuss the dangers of underage alcohol use with your kids and set clear expectations. Keep rules consistent, as permitting your teen to drink at a holiday celebration may leave them confused by the change in parental attitudes and boundaries for alcohol use.
• Supervise youth during any gatherings you host or attend. Providing entertainment is a great way to prevent them from engaging in any poor decision making during a party.
• If drinking in front of your children at a holiday celebration, stay within moderate limits. Being aware of the standard drink sizes is one way to practice responsible adult drinking: 12 oz. of regular beer, 5 oz. of wine, or 1.5 oz. of liquor
• Plan out transportation prior to attending a party. Designate a non-drinking driver or arrange to be dropped off and picked up by a taxi company.
• If young children are present at a gathering, be sure that any cup containing alcohol is kept out of their reach to prevent accidental consumption.
• When hosting, don’t rely on alcohol for entertainment. Provide food and plenty of non-alcoholic drink options. Consider fun themes (e.g. “ugly sweater” party) or games.
• Know the laws. Westchester County strives to keep youth safe by enforcing several underage drinking laws including The Social Host Law, Dram Shop Law, and Leandra’s Law.

If you would like additional information or resources, please email the Council at thedapc@gmail.com. The DAPC wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday!