As graduation season arrives, local agencies including the Newtown Police Department, Newtown Volunteer Ambulance Corps, the local fire companies, the Newtown Prevention Council, and the Newtown Health District are supporting seasonal information and advisories just issued by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Graduation is a time to celebrate. But before high school seniors begin their parties, parents and caregivers should take the time to talk about keeping events alcohol-free - it just may save a life.

No amount of underage drinking is legal or safe. And according to the NIH, any underage drinking can lead to consuming too much alcohol, which can lead to poor decisions, alcohol overdose, and possibly death.

It's About Your Teen

A teenager's brain is still developing, and it is very sensitive to alcohol's effects on judgment and decision making. Tragedies can, and do, happen, so underage drinking should not be a part of any end-of-year celebration.

The Effects of Alcohol Can Be Deceptive…

If parents are asked to explain the reasons behind any rules, simply describe the effects of alcohol on the human body:

1. When people drink alcohol, they may temporarily feel elated and happy, but they should not be fooled. As blood alcohol level rises, the effects on the body - and the potential risks - multiply.

2. Inhibitions and memory become affected, so people may say and do things that they will regret later and possibly not remember doing at all.

3. Decisionmaking skills are affected, so people may be at greater risk for driving under the influence - and risking an alcohol-related traffic crash, or making unwise decisions about sex.

4. Aggression can increase, potentially leading to physical fights.

5. Coordination and physical control are also impacted. When drinking leads to loss of balance, slurred speech, and blurred vision, even normal activities can become more dangerous.

Consuming too much alcohol can also lead to alcohol overdose and death. If people drink too much, they will eventually get sleepy and pass out. Additionally, reflexes like gagging and breathing can be suppressed. That means an intoxicated person could vomit and choke, or just stop breathing completely.

Finally, drinking to celebrate graduation can result in vandalism, arrests, sexual assaults, injuries and trips to the emergency room, alcohol-related traffic crashes, and worse.

Drinking by teens can put them - and their friends - in real danger. Ask them to consider: Is that any way to celebrate?

It is critical to talk with your graduate because research shows that parents do make a difference. By serving as positive role models, talking to other parents and your teens, supervising parties to make sure no alcohol is served, and supporting alcohol-free school celebrations, parents can help prevent a life-changing mistake.

A Word About Alcohol Overdose

Thousands of students are transported to the emergency room each year for alcohol overdose, which occurs when high levels of alcohol suppress the nervous and respiratory systems.

Signs of this dangerous condition can include:

*Slow or irregular breathing;

*Vomiting;

*Mental confusion, stupor, loss of consciousness, or coma; and

*Hypothermia or low body temperature, bluish or pale skin.

An alcohol overdose can lead to permanent brain damage or death, so a person showing any of these signs requires immediate medical attention. If you or your graduates notice any of these signs, don't wait.

Call 911 if you suspect an alcohol overdose.

Remember: Tell your graduate to play it safe and party right - and alcohol-free - at graduation.