Tips for a Safe Prom

Here is a list from the LCBO on how to keep safe on Prom Night.

LCBO'S 10 PROM TIPS FOR STUDENTS

To download a PDF version of the tips listed below, click here.

1. NO ALCOHOL NEEDED. Let’s face it. You know you don’t need alcohol to have fun. It’s not only safer without drinking; it’s also more memorable. Just think no regrets, humiliation, hangover or loss of self-respect to deal with the next day.

2. PLAN OF ACTION. Decide in advance how you’ll make smart choices and deal with anyone who pressures you to drink or do something you don’t want to do. It’s hard to say “No”, so be prepared to say it over and over again if necessary, give a witty response, change the subject or just walk away.

3. HEADING HOME. Don’t get started until you have a plan and money for getting home safely. Never ride with anyone who’s been drinking, doing drugs or is tired. And, of course, don’t even think about drinking and driving yourself. Carry a cell phone so you can call a trusted friend or family member for a ride, share a limo, take a taxi or bus, or walk with friends. From a cell phone, access a taxi by calling #TAXI. If you’re really stuck, spend the night, provided you know and trust the host, rather than ride with someone impaired. Sign a contract with your parents, older brother, sister or friends to promise you won’t drink and drive. Download MADD Canada’s Contract for Life.

4. LEADER OF THE PACK. Be a trendsetter – convince your friends that not drinking at parties is the way to go. Drop the names of celebrities or sports stars who you’ve heard choose not to drink. Put your creativity to the test to come up with original party activities and themes. Visit www.safegrad.com for inspiration. Consider karaoke, costumes, games, prizes, contests, great music and dancing relating to a theme.

5. IT'S YOUR PARTY. Let guests know what your party ground rules are – ahead of time. Keep your eyes open and don’t hesitate to ask an adult for help if there’s a problem. If you see someone doing something risky, take steps to stop them. Remember that, when you have a party, if someone gets impaired, leaves and gets hurt or hurts someone else, you could be held liable. It’s also illegal to serve alcohol to minors.

6. WATCH THE CUP. Always keep your eye on your drink. Never set it down then drink from it later, especially in a public place. You never know who’s slipped what into it. If someone’s added a dangerous drug to your drink, you may not realize it until it’s too late. The consequences can be deadly.

7. SAFETY IN NUMBERS. The buddy system works for more than just swimming. It’s also smart when it comes to party going. Travel in packs or at least with one or two reliable friends. Remind each other what you learned in school about alcohol and decision-making and how to say “No”.

8. MISSION IMPOSSIBLE. Don’t even think about asking someone of legal drinking age to buy alcohol for you. If they’re caught, they could face huge fines or up to a year in jail.

9. A DRINK IS A DRINK IS A DRINK. If you’re 19 or older and choose to drink, remember that a standard beer (12 oz., 5% alc./vol.), glass of wine (5 oz.,12% alc./vol.) and mixed drink (1.5 oz. of spirits, 40% alc./vol.) all contain equal amounts of alcohol. So it’s no safer to stick to beer or coolers, some of which even have a higher alcohol content. If you have five or more drinks in one sitting, you’re binge drinking, which can lead to alcohol poisoning and be fatal.

10. IN CASE OF EMERGENCY. Keep emergency numbers and a first-aid kit handy. Never hesitate to call the police if things get out of hand. Remember that if someone passes out, never leave them alone to sleep it off. They could be suffering from alcohol poisoning. Call 911 immediately and turn them onto their side, with their head on its side as well, to prevent choking if they vomit.