Prevent teen drug use, prevent DUIs

Next week is Safe Roads Awareness Week in NE Seattle.  It will kick off with a walk and rally in memory of Dennis and Judy Schulte who were killed by a drunk driver near Eckstein Middle School last year.

Driving under the influence (DUI) is not only an adult problem.  As a Prevention WINS video shows, NE Seattle high school students sometimes drive under the influence resulting in life-threatening consequences.

In fact, more than 20% of NE Seattle high school seniors report riding in a car with a driver who has been drinking, according to the 2012 Healthy Youth Survey.  This is an increase from 2010.

But it's not all about teenagers riding in a car with a peer who has been drinking.  In NE Seattle, 13% of 8th grade students (Eckstein Middle School) and more than 15% of 10th grade students report riding in a car with a driver who has been drinking.  Though some of them may be riding with older peers, it is more likely that the driver who has been drinking is a parent.

It is important for parents to model safe behaviors.  Learn more from Dr. Leslie Walker, Chief of Adolescent Medicine at Seattle Children's Hospital.



Parents can learn more through three community events taking place over the next week.

Roosevelt High School Parent Education Night
Topic: Preventing teen drug use
Tonight!  March 19
7-8:30 p.m.
Roosevelt High School library

Nathan Hale High School Town Hall Meeting
Topic: Why, when, and how to talk to your kids about drugs and alcohol
Monday, March 24
7-8:30 p.m.
Nathan Hale High School Commons (lunch room)

Mothers Against Drunk Driving
Power of Parents
Tuesday, March 25
Immediately following the memorial walk and rally
Eckstein Middle School