It’s that time of year again, when many families start planning their prom, after-party, graduation, graduation party schedules. As they do so, the Ohio Department of Commerce and the Ohio Department of Public Safety have joined forces to remind them these accomplishments and milestones can be celebrated WITHOUT alcohol.

In fact, the departments included liquor permit holders in the wide net they cast to address those who can help kids safer this season:

“Addressing underage drinking requires a united effort from all members of the community, including parents and schools. By working collaboratively, we can reduce risks and keep celebrations safe and meaningful,” reads their news release. “According to data from the Ohio Department of Public Safety, there were 393 alcohol-related vehicle crashes involving youth from April to early June last year, a 10% decrease from the same period in 2023.”

Things are moving in the right direction, then.

While it may be tempting to be the “cool” house, or to pretend they are doing something helpful by hosting a party at which alcohol is permitted “but at least no one is driving anywhere,” parents and guardians must remember it is a crime in Ohio for anyone to provide alcohol to those who are under age.

There is nothing cool about encouraging alcohol consumption at that age. It can lead to risky, and even deadly behavior no matter how much hosts delude themselves into believing they have the situation under control.

And, again, it’s a crime.

“By having open and honest conversations with teens about the risks of alcohol, especially underage drinking, binge drinking and drunken driving, parents can strongly influence whether their child makes responsible choices,” the departments said in their news release.

Teach young people now that they CAN have fun celebrating these steppingstones to adulthood without the need for alcohol consumption. Be smart, responsible hosts and set a good example.

You’ll be doing the young people in your life far more good than if you set them — and yourself — down a very slippery and dangerous slope.