4 Risks to Review With Your Teen Before Prom

Prom can be an event where amazing memories are made for teens. However, there are also dangers your child should be aware of. By preparing your kids properly, you can help them stay safe from making poor decisions. Here are four things to review with your teen.

1. Driving While Under the Influence

The biggest danger to discuss with your teen before prom is the issue of driving while under the influence. Many teens choose to drink or become pressured to drink alcohol with their peers. Talk to your teen about making responsible choices if they end up drinking, which includes getting a ride home from an adult they trust. Let them know about the risks that come with attempting to drive while under the influence, both physically and legally.

Talk to your teen about the dangers of getting in a car with a drunk driver. The car can crash, teens can get hurt or worse, and individuals can be arrested. Keep in mind that around 72% of all state patrol vehicles use in-car video systems, so if your teen was pulled over in a car that was pulled over, legal action can occur. Remind your child that making such a decision can highly affect their future.

2. Failing to Adhere to Set Curfews

Next, let your teens know that it's important for them to keep time and adhere to the curfew that you set for them. This will make it easier to keep track of them and take action the moment that something seems to be out of place. Remind them that it's important for you to know where they are at all times as well. In 2022, 77% of high schools hosted proms. However, some proms are held at event venues. Either way, having your teen's location may be necessary on a night when accidents can occur.

3. Not Having Emergency Contacts

Take time to compile a list of emergency contacts with your teen so that they know who to reach if they have an emergency. While they also need to reach you, if time is of the essence, it's important that they first reach a fast respondent if something happens.

4. Taking Risks

Last but not least, make sure to tell your teens not to be overtaken by the fear of missing out. This may motivate them to take unnecessary risks and engage in activities that can put them in harm's way or impact their future negatively. From using drugs to doing dangerous stunts and more, several things may be trending, some of which you may not even be aware of. Make sure that these are covered by giving them general advice that will stand for a range of potentially dangerous situations and circumstances.

The average private school has around 166 students, while the average public school has about 500. No matter the size of your child's school, a prom is an event where accidents can happen and students can make poor decisions. Have a proper conversation with your teen ahead of time to ensure they understand these dangers!