Patrol urges safe celebrations

COLUMBUS — With prom and graduation season ahead, state departments are reminding communities to prevent alcohol and cannabis related incidents. The Ohio Department of Commerce's Division of Liquor Control and Division of Cannabis Control warn of risks associated with the drugs and remind permit holders, families, schools and communities to take actions to prevent drug and alcohol accidents. There is a legal obligation for liquor permit holders to ensure they do not sell or serve underage individuals. To prevent prohibited sales, the state suggests thoroughly verifying the identities of young people attempting to buy alcohol. Permit holders should also provide adequate training for their employees. A free Alcohol Server Knowledge course is offered by the Ohio Department of Public Safety's Ohio Investigative Unit. The course covers up-to-date rules and best practices, including those related to underage violations. The division urges permit holders to contact local authorities and report suspicious activity and attempts to make illegal purchases. Permit holders are a key player in preventing incidents caused by underage drinking, according to Division of Liquor Control superintendent Jackie DeGenova. "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," DeGenova said. Parents can also prevent incidents. Consistent and ongoing conversations on the dangers of drugs and alcohol between teens and parents can significantly affect teen decision-making, according to the National Institutes of Health and the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. One incident that could result from dangerous drinking is driving under the influence. This action not only puts the safety of those on the road at risk, but there are also potential legal consequences. Drivers under 21 can be arrested for having a blood alcohol concentration of 0.02%, a percentage that can result after one or two drinks. Violators could face up to a 90-day to 2-year driver's license suspension, and four points added to their driving record. Data from the Ohio Department of Public Safety show: • There were 149 OVI-related traffic crashes in April and May last year involving drivers between 15 and 20. • Out of the 149, 11 were fatal and 10 resulted in serious injury • In all of last year, there was a total of 934 OVI-related traffic crashes involving 15-20-year-old drivers • Out of the total 934 crashes, 72 were fatal and 89 had serious injuries. Those under the age of 21 are also prohibited from using non-medical cannabis. Those who provide the drug to minors can face not only fines but also jail time. Tetrahydrocannabinol, also known as THC, can affect brain development, which continues until the age of 25. By preventing children's and teens' cannabis use, their safety and health are protected. People ages 18 to 25 have the highest rate of marijuana use, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. The investigative unit may conduct "trace-back" investigations to hold sources accountable for fatal or serious injury vehicle crashes involving drugs or alcohol. Adult investigations will focus on liquor permit premises, while crashes or arrests involving those under 21 will be traced back to sources, including private parties. Depending on the outcome of investigations, the agency may file criminal charges against individuals and/or liquor permit holders. "Parents have tremendous influence on the choices their teens make, and talking openly about alcohol, setting clear expectations and modeling responsible behavior can make a big difference," Degenova said. "When parents lead with communication and care, they lay the foundation for celebrations that are both memorable and safe." Resources and guidance for parents to engage in conversations about responsible use are available online at com.ohio.gov/Responsibility.