San Dieguito Group Warns Parents of Unsafe Graduation Practices

By the San Dieguito Alliance for Drug Free Youth

School's out but safety’s in. Graduation ceremonies will be held June 14 at four San Dieguito high schools and law enforcement officials and others are using this occasion to urge parents and graduates to be aware of area laws prohibiting underage drinking.

San Diego County and local social host ordinances and the importance of safety first are detailed in a "Graduation and Summer Safety Bulletin," to be distributed at graduation ceremonies by parents and students through a partnership between the San Diego County Sheriff's Department and San Dieguito Alliance for Drug Free Youth.

Social host ordinances hold party hosts accountable for making sure minors do not have access to alcohol. Violators allowing minors to drink alcohol may face arrest, up to six months in jail, fines of $1,000 or more, and be held responsible for the costs for law enforcement.  Party hosts are required to control access and quantity of alcohol, verify the ages of guests, and supervise the activities of minors.

A 2011 survey of over 300 adults in San Diego’s north coastal region showed that only 26% were aware there was a social host ordinance in the community.  The reason for the strict law, enacted in all 18 cities and the unincorporated area of San Diego County, is clear.   Alcohol is associated with the leading causes of death for teens and young adults including motor vehicle crashes. 

On the positive side, a 2010 study found that among 18- to 20-year-olds, social host ordinances reduced drunk driving fatality rates by 9 percent.

"We want all of our students to return to their studies either at college or high school in the fall, and not deal with the consequences of a risky decision while on summer break," said San Dieguito Academy High School parent Kenneth Hansen.

"The end of the school year is an exciting time for teens, but this is not a time to turn a blind eye to parties and gatherings that facilitate drug and alcohol use," said Judi Strang, Executive Director of the San Dieguito Alliance for Drug Free Youth.  “As parents and adult community members, we have a responsibility to watch over and try to ensure youth are reminded that while summer time can be relaxing and enjoyable, it is not a green light for alcohol and drug use." 

The public is encouraged to report underage drinking parties to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department (858) 565-5200 or Crime Stoppers (888) 580-8477.