Staying Safe During Prom

By: Glen Thompson

Prom is a lasting memory for many of us. Whether it’s freshmen or sophomores who somehow scored an upperclassman to take them, a junior’s first prom experience, or even a senior’s last dance before their high school career ends, it’s significant to us all. It can be an amazing evening of dressing up, dancing, and hanging out with friends, but small choices can drastically change that. So, here are some tips on how to stay safe during prom!

   -Plan ahead. Know who you’re driving with, how many people will be in the car, where you’re going to eat, and where you’re going after prom. Discuss these plans with a parent/guardian and stick to those plans.
   -Avoid illegal substances. It’s not unfamiliar or news to us that some classmates or their dates may partake in illegal substance abuse, but that doesn’t mean you have to. If you know that Classmate X is going to a party where they’ll be drinking after prom, don’t go to that party.
   -Keep in contact with your parents. If plans do change or you’re running late, let your parents know. Prom can be an intense experience and keeping them updated on what’s happening can reduce stress for everyone involved.
   -Do NOT ride in a car with someone who is intoxicated. There are other people that will give you a ride home. Every day, 29 people in the United States die in motor accidents that involve an alcohol-impaired driver. Deny getting into that car to keep yourself safe. There are many taxi-cab services in Findlay that will take you where you need to go, including Lyft, USA Cab (419-788-6296), and Trinity Express Cab (419-615-8879).
   -Make sure the rules you set are followed. If you are driving, insist that everyone wears a seatbelt. Insist that you only have the number of available seats of people. If you’re driving, you make the rules, and everyone has to follow them.
   -Have fun! Prom is a time where you're supposed to have fun! Do it safely and smartly!

Prom is an amazing experience, especially if it’s your first year. However, amazing experiences can easily turn unfortunate if you make poor decisions. Please make conscious, safe decisions this prom season, and we’ll see you at the Marathon Center for the Performing Arts at 8 pm on April 27th for this year’s prom, Up In the Clouds!