The school ball is often the highlight of the year for senior school students and as part of these celebrations students can attend after ball functions.
A well-planned after ball party can be a safe and enjoyable evening for all, as long as the right precautionary measures are put in place.
“With the ball season approaching, we are aware that many students will be attending after ball celebrations,” says Councils Team Leader Safe Communities Anna Crane.
“However there are plenty of potential problems that can occur such as drink driving, property damage and violence if the event has not been well thought out.”
Planning a safe after ball party requires time, energy and a lot of hard work to ensure everything runs smoothly.
If you are planning an after ball or large event you should consider:
- Setting up a working party
- Involving SADD students (Students Against Drunk Driving), teachers, Rodney District Council, Police and parents
- Ensuring transport is available to and from the event
- Understand the Sale of Liquor Act and how it applies to youth
- Limiting numbers – no ticket, no entry
“Party hosts owe it to themselves, their mates and everyone else to make sure everyone gets home safely,” says Mrs Crane.
Council has a number of resources available for parents and young people that provide sound practical advice about the safe use of alcohol, in addition the Alcohol Advisory Council website www.alac.org.nz has some useful resources and checklists for those planning an after ball party or big event.
For further information please contact:
Anna Crane
Rodney District Council
Phone 0800 426 5169
anna.crane@rodney.govt.nz