Tag Archives: alcohol

MAKING SAFE DECISIONS

Au Pairs need to be informed regarding laws in the United States and rules for the Au Pair in America program.

 Drinking

Alcohol Laws in the United States

  • It is illegal for anyone under 21 to drink alcohol in the United States
  • Using a fake id’s is illegal.  You can be arrested for using a fake ID
  • Drinking and driving is illegal and is extremely dangerous. It puts lives at risk.  You should never drink and drive.  If you are arrested for drinking and driving there are very serious consequences in this country including the possibility of spending time in jail.   Also, be a good friend and don’t let your friends drink and drive 
  • Do not risk your year and participation on the program by drinking underage, it is not worth it!

 DrugFree

  • APIA is a drug free program, use of drugs is not allowed
  • Even though Marijuana use is legal with restrictions in some states, it is still not allowed on our program
  • Au pairs caught smoking marijuana or in possession of marijuana are not allowed to remain on the program.

 Home Alone  HomeAlone

  • If your host parents are going away overnight and leaving you at home,  talk about the house rules ahead of time and respect them
  • Talk to your host parents about having friends over when they are away including friends staying overnight and male guests too
  • If you are under 21 years old do not offer alcohol and/or drink alcohol in your host parents home or offer alcohol to other au pairs in their home
  • If you are over 21 talk to your host family about their house rules regarding alcohol use.  Do not offer alcohol or buy alcohol for anyone who is under 21.

 DrivingDriving

  • Make sure you have a clear understanding of the car use rules with your host family, if not talk to them about it or call me
  • Ask permission if you need the car to go somewhere other than where you would normally go
  • Do not take the car to areas that may not be considered safe, ask your host family if you are not sure
  • Be careful at night, park in well-lit safe places, avoid empty looking car parks and indoor garages
  • Do not use your phone or any electronic devices while driving, never text and drive
  • Let your host family and me know immediately if you get into an accident so we can help you

Social Media

  • Be sensible and safe about pictures you share on phones and on social media, nothing is private
  • Always ask your host family for permission before posting pictures of the children on any social media site

Make safe choices!  If you have any questions about anything, call me so we can talk about it. 

If you are ever in a situation where you do not feel safe and cannot reach me call the APIA 24 hour line 1-800-928-7347.