Prom and graduation season is underway, and Fairfax County police are urging revelers to party safely and be aware of the strict consequences of underage drinking.

Police urge residents to be aware of the laws regarding serving alcohol to minors. Members of the Fairfax County Police Department actively serve on the Fairfax Countywide Initiative to Reduce Underage Drinking (CIRUD) and the agency is committed to a community-wide approach on serious issues such as underage and binge drinking.

Underage drinking is a serious offense with strong consequences. It is a Class 1 misdemeanor for anyone under 21 to buy, consume, or possess any alcoholic beverage. Penalties include fines, loss of driver’s license, jail time, and possible expulsion from school.

“Parents Who Host Lose the Most” is another county-sponsored program that targets information to parents as they plan and host their children’s parties. May is declared “Parents Who Host Lose the Most Month” and there are numerous ongoing efforts underway.  Parents can be prosecuted for hosting underage drinking parties. The initiative encourages parents to ensure social events are alcohol free and chaperoned, refuse to supply alcohol to those under age 21, and to make sure alcohol is not brought into the home or on the property.

To report underage drinking parties to police, call 703-691-2131. Learn more about CIRUD at http://unifiedpreventioncoalition.org/.