Social Media Challenges, Safety Issues Focus Of Teen Program

LAKE IN THE HILLS, IL — The Lake in the Hills Police Department will be hosting its eighth annual Teen Safety Series program starting in April.

The free program aims to address current obstacles and challenges teens face, such as alcohol and drug effects, vaping, sexual assault, stalking, social media safety, dating violence, bullying,
peer pressure, suicide prevention and more, according to a news release from the police department.

Sessions will be from 6:30 to 9 p.m. on April 6, 13, 20 at the Irv Floress Safety Education Center, 1109 Crystal Lake Road. The first session will include an information meeting for parents and guardians from 6:35 to 9 p.m. on the main floor of the police station, 1115 Crystal Lake Road.

Members of the Lake in the Hills Police Department will instruct each session. Guest speakers include representatives from the McHenry County Substance Abuse Coalition and McHenry County Department of Health, according to a news release.

Personal stories from those who have experienced the impact of dangerous social media challenges and drug addiction and recovery will also be shared. The program is open to children between the ages of 12 and 16 years old. Space is limited, and pre-registration is required.

Priority registration will be given to Lake in the Hills residents; non-residents also welcome. Those interested in registering can do so online or be calling the community relations division at 847-658-5676 or email communityrelations@lith.org.