The organization known as The Century Council has come up with a creative way for parents to warn their kids about the dangers of drinking—by sending them a text message. To send the message, all parents have to do is go to www.PrmTxt.org to register the child’s number, day you want the message to be sent (it will say “date of prom" on the site, but you can put in any day), and the child’s zip code. Automatically, the child will receive a message on the day of your choosing that says the following: “Have fun 2night. Stay safe. Don't drink. Luv u.” When the message has been received, the parents will receive a confirmation, if they opted for that option when originally registering the child’s info. The service is ideal for use on prom night.

A text message is a good way to reach kids because they are more likely to read it and pay attention to it. Steve Largent, president and CEO of CTIA-The Wireless Association, notes in the press release that "text messaging has increased 93 percent over the past year and is one of the primary methods of communication for teens."

But texting is just part of what a parent must do to make sure their child doesn’t drink and drive, says Susan Molinari, chairman of The Century Council. "We encourage parents to talk to their teen over and over again, especially on prom night, and remind them that underage drinking is illegal and unsafe," she says in the press release. She points out that the service can also be used by other people who are important in the child’s life, such as grandparents, brothers, sisters and friends. Parents, however, are vital to the process. Studies prove that 65% of teens are influenced by parents when deciding not to drink.

The Century Council is a group monetarily supported by distillers whose goal it is to stop drunk driving and teen drinking.

Until next time!