Is underage drinking a problem?

Did you know that youth who start drinking before age 15 years are five times more likely to develop alcohol dependence or abuse later in life than those who begin drinking at or after age 21 years. (National Survey on Drug Use and Health).

Many people may think that underage drinking is a rite of passage- a way to celebrate milestone moments including graduations and proms. But alcohol is not the answer. In fact, underage drinking is a serious health problem and poses great danger to the youth that partake.

There are numerous studies that suggest that early onset exposure to alcohol does serious damage to brain development. The brain of an 18 year old is still developing and exposure to alcohol inhibits its ability to grow. (http://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/aa59.htm)

Is underage drinking a problem in Dixon? I say yes, it is. Is your child drinking? Are you providing alcohol to minors? You are not only breaking the law and putting your child at risk for alcohol related issues later in life but you are putting YOURSELF at risk, legally. If you were serving alcohol to a minor and that minor gets into an accident, the ABC (Alcohol Beverage Control) will be notified and work directly with first responders to find where the alcohol was purchased and served (http://www.abc.ca.gov/programs/TRACE.pdf).

The phrase "I would rather they drink at home where I can watch them" is played out. WHY would you want to watch your minor child be intoxicated? Why would you want them to have your approval to ingest a substance that is addicting and causes health problems? Why would you encourage them to celebrate using alcohol?

The issue of underage drinking is important to me and as a resident of Dixon, I am concerned about the safety of the youth and other residents. At the very least, I hope these underage youth are not getting in cars after drinking and putting community members at risk.

As school gets out and the dog days of summer commence, I challenge you to put a stop to underage drinking. Be aware of the choices your youth are making. Do NOT provide them with alcohol. Encourage them to be safe.