Parents, Don't Be Pushovers When it Comes to Preventing Underage Drinking

18/05/07 These spring-into-summer months mean special occasions like prom and graduation and a time when some parents may feel the urge to relax the rules for their teens -- treating them to party clothes, allowing later curfews, or providing alcohol for teen parties. While the clothes splurge or later curfew is acceptable, mixing alcohol and teens never is.

According to a recent survey conducted by Data Development Worldwide for Anheuser-Busch, 98 percent of parents agree it is not okay to purchase alcohol for teen parties or gatherings. A new ad developed by Anheuser-Busch provides an important reminder to parents and other adults, declaring "Don't be a pushover. Be a parent. Prevent. Don't Provide alcohol to minors". The ad, which will run May 17 in USA Today, is endorsed by The Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI), the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), and the National Fatherhood Initiative (NFI).

"We represent many parents -- fathers, especially -- who are looking for guidance when it comes to talking with their teens about important life decisions," said Roland Warren, NFI president. "We appreciate this opportunity to send a strong message against underage drinking with Anheuser- Busch."

The brewer's Prevent Don't Provide campaign recognizes that while parents' positions may not always be popular, not allowing minors to drink alcohol or refusing to buy it for them and their friends should not be negotiable. Unfortunately, some parents say "yes" when faced with this situation. Research has found that two-thirds of teens who drink say they get alcohol from their parents or other adults.

John Kaestner, vice president of Consumer Affairs, Anheuser-Busch, emphasizes, "Teens know that underage drinking is illegal, but they may try to push the boundaries. That's where our job as parents comes in, and it's imperative that we communicate the difference between right and wrong."

Fire Chief James Harmes, IAFC president, adds, "As first responders, we see the tragedies that can occur because of underage drinking, so we are proud to lend our support to this initiative to help keep our young people safe."

Fortunately, the majority of teens today are making responsible decisions and demonstrating they know right from wrong, especially when it comes to underage drinking. According to the federal government's 2005 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 83 percent of 12-17 year-olds do not drink. And an annual survey of teens conducted by the Roper Youth Report for more than a decade reveals the majority of teens (74 percent), ages 13 to 17, have consistently cited their parents as the No. 1 influence on their decisions to drink or not.

"The Junior Leagues have always been committed to improving communities and the welfare of children and families. Therefore, we are so pleased to be associated with this important effort that helps empower parents to keep their children healthy and safe," said Sandi Kemmish, AJLI President.