Setting the right example.
It's no surprise that American's love to celebrate the Fourth of July, but did you know for the past 10 years Independence Day has had the highest accident rates? Reports have shown that Fourth of July is one of the deadliest holidays for motor-vehicle accidents. The holiday weekend is often celebrated with a hefty amount of alcohol consumption (and other impairing substances) contributing to many of these accidents.
There is no harm in those over the drinking age enjoying a few drinks, as long as they do so responsibly. For those under the drinking age, parents play an important role in influencing their decision to not drink. According to a survey by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), teens whose parents told them underage drinking is completely unacceptable are 80% less likely to drink.
Parents should start early when talking to their children about the risks of underage drinking and other dangerous substances. Some other things parents can do to set a good example for their children when drinking are:
-Always drink responsibly, or not at all
-Not using alcohol as a stress reliever
-Never driving after drinking
-Have regular conversations with your children about the consequences of drinking.
We hope everyone is able to enjoy a safe holiday weekend with their family and keep these examples in mind year round.
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