Homecoming season is a cherished tradition bringing together high school students, families and alumni to celebrate school spirit and unity. The Lima/Allen County Safe Community Coalition reminds citizens that while these festivities are eagerly anticipated, they also come with concerns about driving safety, particularly in the context of post-game and dance celebrations and gatherings, much of it being done by youthful drivers.

According to national statistics, motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of injury and death among teenagers. In an effort to address this issue, local and state law enforcement agencies are increasing their presence on the roads during Homecoming Season. Officers will be actively patrolling to detect and deter reckless driving behaviors such as speeding, distracted driving, impaired driving, and not wearing seat belts. These overtime enforcement efforts are part of a comprehensive strategy to ensure the safety of everyone on the road. Officers will be working extra hours and utilizing various resources to promote safe driving practices and enforce traffic laws.

Follow these Tips for Teens to help keep them safe this Homecoming:

Share the party plan. Share the details of your homecoming night plans with your parents- who you are going with, where you are planning to go after homecoming, and when you will be home.

Discuss driving. Agree with your parent(s) on the sober driving arrangements, whether it will be a parent or teen driving, or if you will be riding with a friend. 

Make back-up plans. If something doesn't work out as expected with driving arrangements, make sure you have a back-up plan. No matter what, do not ride with anyone that has been drinking alcohol.

Set check-in times. Decide in advance with your parent(s) on times for you to be at agreed upon locations throughout your homecoming night. Check in with them when you get to each place. 

Nix booze. If you are planning to attend another party before or after homecoming and you find out there is alcohol there, have a plan in place so you can count on your parent(s) to come and get you with no questions asked. The goal is to get home safe.