PAKENHAM teenagers have been urged to think before they drink.

A new program launched by police is designed to better educate young people about the dangers associated with underage drinking.

The Cardinia Your Choice program gives young people information about the choices they have about the consumption of alcohol.

Fifteen teenagers have taken part in the new initiative since it was launched in April.

The educational program is being conducted in partnership with the Cardinia-Casey Community Health Service and the South East Alcohol and Drug Service (SEADS).

Pakenham youth resource officer Senior Constable Sharon Patterson said the program gave police an extra option when dealing with young people who had committed alcohol-related offences.

Parents and guardians were also requested to attend the program alongside their children.

Sen Const Patterson said teenage drinking was on the increase in Cardinia Shire.

This could lead to an increase in criminal activity and anti-social and risk-taking behaviour by young people, police said.

“Previously, young people would have been fined or cautioned if detected drinking, possessing alcohol or consuming alcohol on licensed premises whilst under age,” Sen Const Patterson said.

“This program supports local schools in their current drug education policies and reinforces the messages being given to school students. It also aims to inform those young people who are not attending school, and are often more at risk, and uses the court as a last resort for young offenders.”

Sen Const Patterson said the Your Choice program sought to inform teenagers and their parents and guardians about their responsibilities.

“Many parents and teenagers alike think it is OK to have alcohol if it has been provided by their parents,” she said.

“They are actually not aware that supplying alcohol to a minor is an offence under the Liquor Licensing Act and can attract an on-the-spot fine,” Sen Const Patterson said.