News & Updates

  • Teens + Alcohol + Cars = A Deadly Mixture

    03/14/2017

    This holiday season, when family celebrations may include alcohol, talk about the risks of underage drinking with your children and teens. Talk early, talk often, and let them know that most of their friends are making healthy and safe choices. The following article from a parent reminds us that the time to talk and act is now. By Joe Pallitto It was a long day and we all went to bed

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  • Summer begins 100 deadliest days for teen drivers

    03/14/2017

    Driver impairment is the leading contributor in most teen driving fatalities Summer is fast approaching and teens will soon be out of school, car keys in hand, and looking forward to a little summertime fun. With a little more freedom and increased opportunities for teens to get behind the wheel, parents need to be extra vigilant as we enter the 100 deadliest days for teen drivers. The months

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  • Practice talking to your kids with new mobile app

    03/14/2017

    Prepare for one of the most important conversations you may ever have with your kids about underage drinking (or other drug use). SAMHSA’s “Talk. They Hear You.” app is available on desktop computers and on the go from the App Store, Google Play™, the Windows® Store, and Windows® Phone Store. Watch this quick video to see how the app works (Video: 1:01).

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  • Doctor has important message for parents about teens and marijuana

    03/14/2017

    Dr. Leslie Walker with Seattle Children's hospital recently recorded a video message for parents about marijuana, teens and addiction. Hear what she has to say about the real impacts of marijuana on teens, and what parents can do.

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  • Talking with Your Teens About Washington's New Marijuana Laws

    03/14/2017

    You've talked with your teens about the health, safety and legal consequences of underage drinking, but what about marijuana? Before you talk with your teens, do you know the facts about the effects on teen health? Do you know how to talk with your teen, what to do and how to help if your teen is already using marijuana? Are you clear on what the new laws are for Washington? Two new

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  • Set clear rules about alcohol as your teen heads back to school

    03/14/2017

    As your teen begins a new school year, they will be exposed to exciting new experiences and increased independence. The choices they make now – such as making new friends, trying out for the team, joining a club, or planning for life after high school—will have an impact on their future. So will the decision whether or not to use alcohol. Before you say “Kids will be kids,” or “I drank alcohol

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  • Is Your Teen Making Safe Choices behind the Wheel?

    03/14/2017

    Motor vehicle collisions are the leading cause of death for teen drivers. Teens need regular reminders about making safe decisions when they’re behind the wheel, especially about never driving if they are impaired. In 2014, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported there were 4,272 fatalities in U.S. caused by drivers ages 15- 20. In Washington State alone, teen drivers were

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  • When is Marijuana “Poison”?

    03/14/2017

    Washington Poison Center When most people think of the Washington Poison Center, they do not immediately think of alcohol and drug prevention but associate us with Mr. Yuk and childhood poison prevention. In fact, whenever we are part of a conversation people often ask, “So why are you here?” The reason is simple; over the 60 year history of the Washington Poison Center the types of substances

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  • New marijuana education campaign asks real-life questions

    03/14/2017

    Parents are the most powerful influence in their child’s life. That’s why a new ad campaign asks parents across Washington State to talk with their kids about the risks of marijuana use. The campaign uses banner ads on websites and Facebook to pose simple, real-life questions and scenarios that parents could face with their teenagers. Questions include: “Your teen asks why marijuana is legal

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  • Help your teen have a prom and graduation to remember

    03/14/2017

    Prom night. Graduation! You want these milestones to be fun and memorable for your teen. But you also worry about their safety at after-event parties, and for good reason. The most dangerous time of year for teens is from prom night to graduation, especially when it comes to drinking and driving. So let's keep our teens safe by being informed and prepared. While most teens will make healthy

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