June marks the beginning of summer and is the graduation month of all of our local high schools.
The month also marks the beginning of a period known as the “100 deadliest days of summer.” We want all kids to have a great summer away from school and to be excited for their new journey in life after graduation. We also need to make sure they are aware of the dangers that these exciting times bring.
According to a study from We Save Lives, 60 percent of teen car crashes stem from distracted driving.
Laws have been enacted to keep cellphones out of the hands of drivers. Unfortunately, we are still seeing accidents resulting from cellphone use.
The study also revealed the top distraction for teens is other passengers. Please be aware of this as your teen will most likely be out and about during these “100 deadliest days.”
Graduation parties are a June tradition. Every year the Sheriff’s Office responds to calls about parties in the woods. These usually involve a bonfire, gravel pit and alcohol. While these may be enticing outdoor activities, it’s not always a safe environment for teens.
Peer pressure is usually a part of these gatherings and on occasion bad choices do occur. When we show up at these gatherings, most of the people run and scatter. The problem is they are running in an unfamiliar area in the dark. As a result, there have been many injuries associated with falls.
Talk to your kids about being safe if they plan to attend these gatherings. If they are unable to drive home, they need to have a plan. Letting them know they can call home if they are in a tight spot is always a good idea.
There are also many temptations for teens who have recently graduated and may be moving away from home to college.
For most teens, this will be the first time living away from home. I have been called to many parties over the years to find teens drinking alcohol or providing a place for minors to consume alcohol.
The ramifications of receiving an MIP (minor in possession) ticket can be huge. The teen’s driver’s license could be affected, and if they are found guilty they could receive other punishments that could ruin future plans. Adults need to tell teens to be careful and that some of the decisions they make over these summer months could impact them for several years.
Please stay safe during these upcoming months and don’t allow yourself or your friends to be another sad statistic during the “100 deadliest days.”
— Chad Clark is chief of patrol operations for the Skagit County Sheriff’s Office. Email questions to Askpatrolchief@gmail.com
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