GUEST COMMENTARY: KEEPING OUR CHILDREN SAFE, DRUG FREE

It is that time of year when the children in our community are
finalizing the finishing touches to their trick or treat outfits and
law enforcement agencies remind all of us about the dangers of drugs.
As the chief of police and the prevention officer we wish to encourage
all of you to participate in Red Ribbon Week and provide some tips to
keep safe of Halloween night.

Red Ribbon Week

The Red Ribbon Campaign is now the oldest and largest drug prevention
program in the nation reaching millions of young people during Red
Ribbon Week, Oct. 23-31 each year. The Red Ribbon Campaign was started
when drug traffickers in Mexico City murdered Drug Enforcement Agent
Kiki Camarena in 1985. The red ribbon is worn to display a symbol of
intolerance towards the use of drugs and present a commitment toward
keeping kids drug free. Wear your red badge proudly and have the
courage to say no to drugs!

Since the time Red Ribbon Week was established, the drug of choice has
changed many times. But as parents, the key to keeping children safe
is to talk about the dangers of drug abuse. Prescription drugs have
become more of a problem too. Parents should set clear rules for our
children about not using drugs, be a good example for our children by
not using illegal drugs or medicine without a prescription. More than
3.1 million teenagers between the ages of 12 to 17 report abusing
prescription drugs, therefore relatives should lock up their
medication or place it where children cannot access it. Also remember
to dispose of older medication properly to ensure that it is not abused.

Keeping up to date on the most commonly abused types of prescription
medications, like pain relievers, sedatives, stimulants or
tranquilizers is important as well as communicate the dangers to your
child regularly. Do not be afraid to repeat the message, once is not
enough. It could be the difference between life and death.