LETTERS: PROM, GRADUATION NEED NOT RESULT IN TRAGIC ENDINGS

To the editor:

These are the months our high schools are conducting proms and graduations. While these activities are fun, we must not forget that these celebrations can end with tragic results. Unfortunately, alcohol and drugs are sometimes associated with these celebrations.

For people 15 to 20 years old, motor-vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death. During weekends a young person dies in a traffic crash once an hour somewhere in the country. More than half of these deaths are alcohol-related. Convincing teens to be safe and sober might save a life. Preventing even one fatality would make our efforts a success.

While I encourage students to enjoy themselves and have a great time, I want to make sure they live to talk about it with their parents and friends.

CAPT. CRAIG R. SMITH

Commander

Illinois State Police District 22

Ullin, Ill.