Be aware of overdose dangers

To the editor:
Everyone mark your calendar for Friday, Aug. 31. The Drug Policy Alliance will join forces with organizations in the U.S. and abroad for International Overdose Awareness Day. This day brings the opportunity to educate the public about the problem of overdose deaths.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, drug overdose rates have more than tripled since 1990. In 2009, more than 37,000 in the U.S. died from drug overdoses, with many of these deaths coming from prescription painkiller opiate drugs such as Oxycodone.
As reported by Drugfree.org, every day more than 2,000 kids use a prescription drug to get high for the first time. Prescription medicines are now the most commonly abused drugs among 12-13 year-olds. Unintentional drug poisoning is now the leading cause of accidental death in (70 deaths per day), surpassing car accidents.
Parents, pay attention to change in behavior of teenagers.
Monitor your prescription and over-the-counter medicines, place them in a lock box, and keep a count of medications. Safeguard and properly dispose of unused or expired medicines.
Who is the most powerful influence in your child’s life? Parents, it’s you. Kids who learn about the risks of drugs and alcohol from their parents are up to 50 percent less likely to use them than those who do not. Talk and listen to your child. Make it clear that you do not want them to drink or use drugs.
Attempt to be directly involved in your child’s everyday world, and as hard as it may be, set limits on your child.
Gary Hendershot, vice
chairperson, Jay County
Drug Prevention Coalition[[In-content Ad]]