Typical Prevention Issues in the Community

The Office of Substance Abuse Prevention (1991) suggests that communities often are motivated to address the following prevention issues:

• "Community alcohol and other drug use norms and practices, including drinking and driving.

• Local and regional pro-use messages on billboards, radio, and television, and in movies and the print media.

• The availability of alcohol and other drugs.

• The training of those selling or serving alcohol.

• Improper business practices relating to the sale of drugs.

• The enforcement or lack of enforcement of relevant laws, ordinances, and curfews.

• School policies and practices regarding prevention education, consequences for alcohol and other drug use, and school climate.

• The allocation of resources (dollars, materials, and personnel) to address community youth problems.

• The development of alternative activities for youth." (p. 23)