INFORMATION, RESOURCES ONLINE.

Crystal methamphetamine production and use is a serious and growing
problem in British Columbia.

According to recent studies, approximately

five per cent of B.C. students in Grades 7-12 may have used
methamphetamine. That's about 17,000 young people. And crystal meth
use is much higher among some groups of at-risk youths.

Studies also show that most first-time use of crystal meth occurs in
Grades 9 or 10.

In order to help educate youth and adults alike, the B.C. government
has developed a website - www.no2meth.ca - that has information,
tools and resources for students, parents and teachers.

For students, there are sections on meth facts, how to talk to your parents

about drugs, and how to stay safe when you are out with your friends.

For parents, there are sections on why kids do drugs, as well as tips
on how to talk to your child about drugs, and what protective steps
to take before your child is exposed to drugs. There is also a
parents' guide to crystal meth that will be available through schools.

"I know that being a parent today can be challenging and stressful,"
said B.C. Education Minister Shirley Bond.

"I also know that our children are faced with many competing influences in

their lives. That's why it is important that our government help
families by helping teach our children about the dangers of crystal
meth use and by providing useful tools and resources."

Included on the site is contact infomation for the province's Alcohol
and Drug Information and Referral Service (ADIRS). Addiction support
workers are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to answer
questions about alcohol and drug use, or provide information about
counselling services, detox centres, treatment centres, and self-help groups.

ADIRS staff responded to more than 35,000 calls last year. Call
604-660-9382 for help.