Elverson Borough mayor Bob Broderick has proclaimed April 21st to be "Power Talk 21 Day" in Elverson, the official day for parents to talk to their children about alcohol.

With the school year coming close to completion, many are looking forward to the variety of annual celebrations. From holidays to prom and graduation and many more. It's vital for the community and especially our children to understand the dangers of underage drinking, so that our joyous occasions can remain that way rather then turn into a time of heartbreak and loss. The unfortunate reality is that underage drinking is an epidemic in our country, each year teen alcohol use kills more then 4,700 which is more then all other illegal drugs combined. If that number isn't staggering enough on its own drinking and driving claimed 13,470 lives last year alone. Studies show that children start weighing the pros and cons of underage drinking as early as age 8, as second and third graders in elementary school. 1 in 4 middle school students have tried alcohol by the end of 8th grade. High school students who use alcohol or other substances are five times more likely to drop out of school or believe that good grades aren't important. Children's perceptions about alcohol continue to evolve through the age of 21, teens are 80% less likely to drink if parents deliver a clear "no alcohol before 21" message.

The good news is that parents, not peers, are still the number ONE influence on their children's decisions about drinking. This is not just a one day conversation however, it is up to everyone to put an end to underage drinking and all too often its deadly consequences. It need to be an ongoing conversation that CAN and WILL save lives.

Elverson Honey Brook Area EMS urges all parents to download the FREE "Power Of Parents Handbook" which can be found at the following:

Visit the Elverson Borough Website at www.elversonboro.org - Then click on "Talking With Teens About Alcohol MADD Handbook"

Together we can stop this dangerous and often deadly behavior, make a difference, have the talk and save lives!