Bedford Police Offer Safety Tips for Graduation Day

BEDFORD, NH - With graduation just a few weeks away, Chief John Bryfonski and the Bedford Police Department would like to remind students and parents to celebrate responsibly, according to a press statement.

The Bedford High School graduation will take place on Saturday, June 11 at 10 a.m. at Bedford High School.

“We are very proud of our graduates,” Bryfonski said. “During this time of celebration, we ask that all students and families remain both safe and responsible for the good of the community.”

Students, please remember:

• Underage consumption of alcohol is illegal. The penalty for person under 21 years old who attempts to purchase alcohol, makes arrangements to buy alcohol, or uses a fake I.D. is a suspended license for 90 days and a $300 fine. Any person who facilitates or hosts an underage drinking party can be charged with a misdemeanor.
• Never drink and drive. Do not get in a car with anyone who has been drinking or is under the influence of drugs. The Bedford Police Department will be conducting increased DWI patrols in conjunction with graduation day.
• Respect yourself and others. Know your boundaries and don’t hesitate to call 911 if you or someone you know is being abused.

Parents can help their students celebrate appropriately. Chief Bryfonski recommends that adults:

• Know their teenagers’ plans. Find out where your student is going, who it’s with and what they’ll be doing. Offer to drive your teenager to and from parties.
• If you’re hosting the party, provide non-alcoholic beverages and do not tolerate drugs on your property.Under the Social Host Law, parents are criminally and civilly liable if they allow underage drinking to occur in their homes.
• Contact the hosts of any party your graduate is attending to ensure there is proper adult supervision and that alcohol will not be present.
• If an invited guest arrives intoxicated or under the influence of drugs, be prepared to call the person’s parents.

"The police department serves as a resource to the Bedford community," Bryfonski said. "If you need assistance on graduation day, do not hesitate to contact us."

Submitted by the Bedford Police Department.