Many parents send their high school and college-age children to Florida and countries abroad for spring break vacation. Spring break is known for parties in which young people, away from home without supervision, sometimes make poor choices resulting in dangerous behavior. These poor choices are sometimes exacerbated by the illegal use of alcohol by persons under 21 years of age.

Risky behavior during spring break has resulted in catastrophic consequences. These consequences have included theft, injury, sexual assault, arrest, and death. Beautiful vacation destinations extend the welcome mat to visitors the year round; however, spring break presents unique circumstances as many students travel to let off steam and take risks.

It is for that reason that The Charmer Sunbelt Group has joined with the R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center of the University of Maryland and the Trauma Center Association of America to develop SURF: Spring Break Urging Responsibility and Fun. This high-profile community outreach program builds educational partnerships with parents.

Parents have the most influence on their children. Before their children travel for spring break, SURF urges parents to talk to their children about alcohol and making safe choices. Moms and dads depend on key stakeholders -- including The Charmer Sunbelt Group, government officials, regulators, and licensees, as well as police officers and the medical community -- to keep their children out of harm’s way and to ensure they get home safely. CSG house presidents offer responsible service training to ensure that alcohol is served to patrons of legal drinking age and served responsibly. Working together, we can make a difference for many young people.

Our public service announcements about SURF are voiced by key government officials and will air on radio stations in prime time. A video PSA will be shown on corporate websites and local television stations. Members of shock trauma will reach out to parents and their children, as well as schools, to begin a dialogue on alcohol and making safe choices. In addition, we look forward to working with the media to further our message outreach.

Thank you for supporting SURF!

Brian M. Fischer
Vice President Community Relations
The Charmer Sunbelt Group 

Click to view the SURF PSA from Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell:

View Brian Fischer's appearance on Foxnews.com's "Strategy Room," discussing safety and underage drinking during spring break: