Prom Safety Tips

Prom season is here! Everything from gowns and tuxedos, promposals, and luxury cars to escort couples around town, prom is a rite of passage for many high school students. With all the excitement that surrounds these events, Autauga County Schools is encouraging students and families to use these practical tips to enjoy a safe and memorable prom night.

• Make a plan! Enjoy the night by planning ahead with a safe prom plan. Discuss your plans with friends, and be an accountability partner to combat negative peer pressure. Know where you are at all times, and keep others informed of changes in your location.
• Know the school's rules and expectations for the event. It's your responsibility to know and follow them so that everyone can enjoy the night. 
• Charge your cell phone and keep it with you at all times. The hundreds of photos are fantastic, but so is being able to contact someone if you need something. Consider carrying a portable charger too!
• Take extra money or have a responsible person available for transportation for a safe ride home or in case an emergency arises.
• Only take what you can carry with you during the night. It's never a good idea to leave your possessions unattended at any time. 
• Buckle up! Whether you're the driver or passenger, always wear your seatbelt. 
• Avoid distracted driving by not using a cell phone while behind the wheel and limiting the number of passengers in your vehicle.
• Trust your instincts! If you feel uncomfortable in a situation or location, leave immediately. Prepare for how to remove yourself from awkward situations by role-playing scenarios with friends or family.
• Don't believe the hype! Memorable prom experiences don't have to involve illegal or promiscuous behavior; prom should never be the first time you try something new.  
• Alcohol is illegal for anyone under 21, but regardless of age, alcohol use can result in arrest, injury, or death. Intoxication by alcohol or drugs can lead to poor judgment and dangerous situations.
• See something, say something! Report any suspicious or illegal behavior to a school administrator immediately. 
• Know your person! Have a trusted adult that you can contact if you need anything. Regardless of the situation you find yourself in, be able to call someone. Your value is far greater than the mistake you've made, so make the call regardless of the consequences.

“As school administrators, we have a duty to create a safe environment so students look back on these experiences with fond memories and not regret,” said Dr. Boyd, Interim Superintendent. “Far too often, stories headline local news outlets with prom experiences that went tragically wrong, so let's flip the sometimes-negative narrative about prom by modeling these behaviors so everyone makes it home safely with memories that will last them a lifetime.”