New video shows consequences of underage drinking and provides prevention tips for parents

In April, Prevention WINS and Seattle Children's Hospital Division of Adolescent Medicine hosted a movie night featuring a new video produced by Prevention WINS coalition members.  The video is now posted to the Prevention WINS website for all to see: www.preventionworksinseattle.org. 

The primary purpose of the video is to raise awareness among NE Seattle parents about the problem of underage drinking and potential consequences, such as drinking and driving.  The video also provides parents with tips for how to prevent underage drinking. 

While parents can have the most influence on the choices their teenage children make, the most effective way to prevent underage drinking and youth substance use is for the whole community to be involved.  Schools, law enforcement, healthcare organizations, youth-serving organizations, religious organizations, businesses, and youth themselves are just some of the community members that have roles to play.  Learn more at the Prevention WINS website. 

Photos thanks to KIRO-TV.

NE Seattle teens, drinking & driving

According to the 2012 Healthy Youth Survey, almost a quarter of NE Seattle* high school seniors report riding in a car with someone who has been drinking. 

Last June, Seattle's Child magazine published "Anna's Lesson", a story about a NE Seattle teenager who drove drunk and suffered life-threatening consequences.  On April 25, the Prevention WINS coalition will launch a 15-minute video about underage drinking and driving in NE Seattle.  Following the video, NE Seattle community members, including parents and youth, will talk about their experiences and answer questions from participants.  For more information, contact Prevention WINS.

*NE Seattle = Eckstein Middle School 8th grade, Nathan Hale and Roosevelt High Schools 10th and 12th grades combined data

NE Seattle teenagers drinking & driving

In today's Seattle Times: 16% of drivers found to be high.

When it comes to teenagers drinking and driving in northeast Seattle, this is what students report (2008 Healthy Youth Survey):

Percent of students who report riding with a driver who has been drinking:

10th grade: 23%

12th grade: 33%

Percent of students who report drinking and driving:

10th grade: 6%

12th grade 17%.