STILLWATER — As Oklahomans look forward to summer vacations, lake days, and late evenings spent with family and friends, the Payne County LiveWell Coalition is urging community awareness of underage drinking. With school and relaxed schedules, our kids often have more unsupervised time and greater opportunities to attend social gatherings where alcohol is present. National data shows alcohol is the most widely used substance among American youth, with millions of individuals under 21 reporting alcohol use each year.
Underage drinking risks are serious and can have lasting consequences. Alcohol contributes to approximately 4,000 deaths each year among individuals under 21 due to car crashes, injuries, and violence. During the summer months these dangers can increase, particularly during activities like swimming, boating, and traveling. Because alcohol impairs judgment and coordination, it increases the likelihood of preventable accidents like drownings and crashes.
Many teenagers obtain alcohol from social sources like friends or private gathering. Consequently, preventing underage drinking is a shared responsibility among families and communities. This responsibility is reinforced by Oklahoma’s Social Host Law (37A O.S. § 6-101). This statute makes it illegal to knowingly allow individuals under the age of 21 to possess or consume alcohol on property you control. Individuals can be held responsible regardless of who provided the beverages, and a “social host” can include parents, older siblings, tenants, or minors who provide a location for a party.
Violations of the law can result in fines starting at $500, and if an incident results in injury or death, penalties can lead to felony charges and prison time. Importantly, choosing to ignore underage drinking rather than stopping it can still result in legal consequences, as the law applies when someone knowingly allows minors to drink.
Summer months should be a time for fun, but prevention efforts are essential. Parents and caregivers can protect kids from the risks of underage drinking by taking proactive steps: 1. Set clear expectations when talking about substance use 2. Stay involved in children’s lives and activities 3. Increase supervision and check-ins during summer months 4. Talk openly about the risks of alcohol and secure all alcohol kept in the home When we work together, Oklahoma communities can help prevent tragedy before it happens. You can find more information and conversation guides at “Talk. They Hear You.” at www.samhsa.gov