Basic Prom Safety

Whether you're a girl or a guy, it's for certain that you want your Prom to be enjoyable, fun, magic, and memorable. And, although safety is probably the last thing you'll be thinking of on your big night, it is your responsibility to ensure that you and your date are safe before, during, and after the Prom.

Parents can ensure that teenagers have an enjoyable, and safe, evening by talking with their teens before the Prom. Set a curfew, talk about expectations, and let them know that they can call for help—no matter the time of night—and you will come to their rescue wherever they are, without fear of judgment or anger. You can always speak with your teen the following day about behaviors, but your teen should be able to trust you to be there for him when he needs you. If she feels that you will simply yell at her for finding herself in a precarious predicament, then she will be less likely to call for help when it is needed.

Well before Prom night rolls around, parents should ask—and teens should answer—four basic questions; who will be riding with you or who will you be riding with? When does the Prom end? Where will the after-Prom activities be held? What time will you come home? If parents and teens decide the answers to those questions before the Prom, everyone will understand the expectations, and there will be no surprises.

If you are driving, arrive at the Prom safely by insisting that all passengers wear safety belts, and follow the posted speed limits. Leave a little early so that you don't feel pressured to speed to get to the Prom on time. To limit distractions, don't use your cell phone while driving, keep the volume of your music low, and never consume alcohol since it is illegal for teens to drink—and it's illegal to drink and drive, no matter your age. If you are going to the Prom as a group, consider hiring a limo or a van with a driver, or ask a trusted family member to drive your group to the event.

During your Prom, resist the urge to follow your peers out to the parking lot to sample drugs or alcohol. Don't get into a car with a friend if you suspect that she has been drinking. You don't have to be falling down or staggering drunk to be considered an impaired driver. One drink or one sampling of drugs can impair driving abilities. You'll want to remember your Prom night because of the fun you had, and not because you got hurt.