Not selling alcohol to underage youth is one of the primary strategies to prevent underage drinking in communities. “The earlier someone begins drinking, the more likely they are to be alcohol dependent in later life,” said Sean Byrne Executive Director of PreventionWorkz the Regional Prevention Center.
“Over 40% of individuals who start drinking before the age of 13 will develop alcohol abuse or alcohol dependence at some point in their lives and 95% of the 14 million people who are alcohol dependent began drinking before the legal age of 21.” said Byrne. “That’s why it’s important to keep alcohol out of the hands of underage youth. The majority of our local retailers are trying to do the right thing. This training gives them increased tools and techniques to not only protect themselves, but help protect the community they live in.”
The Responsible Beverage Service and Sales (RBSS) training teaches retailers about specific policies, procedures, and techniques to comply with laws about selling alcohol and liquor.
“A lot of individuals don’t realize that it is actually illegal for the retailer to serve you, or allow you to remain on their premises, if you’re already intoxicated,” Byrne said. “This training is all about giving retailers the information and support they need to recognize an illegal sale and confidently refuse it.”
RBSS Training includes information on spotting fake identifications, signs of intoxication, legal liability, and refusing sales. “We’ve had great support from area retailers including bars, restaurants, and convenience stores,” Byrne said. “Rock-A-Way Tavern will be hosting the Guthrie training which shows great community investment and concern. Local businesses don’t want to see kids drinking or people hurt from drunk driving. This is their community, too.”
The free training will be conducted on May 22 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Rock-A-Way Tavern, located at 7802 S. Sooner Road, in Guthrie. Those interested may contact Sean Byrne at 580-234-1046 or via email at training@preventionworkz.org.
The training is a collaboration between the ABLE Commission, PreventionWorkz, and the Logan County Partnership Coalition with funding provided through the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. Space is limited so participants are encouraged to register early.
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don’t discuss such topics. To the next! Cheers!!