Benefits and Guidelines

SafeHomes program

SafeHomes program does not require a commitment of time or extra effort for already busy families. It is simply an agreement among parents to follow some simple principles that will provide a safer world for our children:

• Not to serve or allow minors to consume beer, wine, alcohol, or use illegal drugs at a gathering of minors in our home.
• To be present and provide supervision at any gathering of minors in our home.
• To communicate with other parents or guardians who are concerned about the safety of their children in our home.

SafeHomes Benefits:

• SafeHomes parents feel comfortable contacting host parents prior to parties or gatherings. 
• SafeHomes parents will have access, via the internet or paper directory (to be determined) to the names of parents participating in the program and are part of a support system for parents with similar concerns. 
• SafeHomes parents communicate with our young people that parents do care and are taking the initiative to deal with the problems of teenage alcohol/drug use.

Family Communications:

• Develop and communicate a clear position about alcohol/drug use. 
• Inform your children that you have joined Safe Homes and discuss it with them. 
• Know where your children are and let them know where you are.
• Be awake (or awakened) when your children come home at night.
• Assure your teenagers that they can telephone you to be picked up whenever needed. Mention that they can call from any place, any time. 
• Get to know your teenager’s friends and their parents.

As a host parent:

• Call the parents of any teen possessing alcohol or drugs or appearing to be under the influence of either of these.
• Call appropriate law enforcement, if necessary. 
• Do not let anyone under the influence go home alone or drive.
• Be a visible host/hostess. Tell the guests who choose to leave early that they may not return. 
• Encourage by invitation only activities. Do not permit party crashers: use a guest list. 

The SafeHomes Pledge:

“I will not allow minors to consume beer, wine, alcohol, or use illegal drugs in my home or on my property. I will not allow parties or gatherings in my home without proper adult supervision.”