Plan for safe and happy proms and graduations

Graduations are just around the corner. This is a time to celebrate achievements, good friends, and the future. As we recognize all of the high school and college graduates, the Rhode Island Department of Health would also like to remind everyone to be safe.

Celebrate Responsibly

Many high schools or communities sponsor substance-free events after prom or after graduation. Help plan a local event and if you have high school students, encourage them to attend. If your community does not have alcohol-free prom or graduation parties, talk to your children about the dangers of underage drinking, and make a point of having teens inform you of where they are and who they are with. more

The legal drinking age in Rhode Island is 21. Adults age 21 and older should not be hosting parties for underage drinkers or buying alcohol for minors. If you are 21 or older and have been drinking, do not drive. The legal limit in Rhode Island is .08. If you do plan to drink, make sure you choose a designated driver.

Keep Party Food Safe and Healthy

  • Keep hot foods hot and keep cold foods cold. Food that is kept at unsafe temperatures for too long can start to grow bacteria that could make people sick
  • Wash your hands before and after handling raw meat, poultry, fish or eggs.
  • If you are grilling, put grilled items on clean plates or serving platters.
  • If you are planning to order food from a restaurant or caterer, check out the business’ food safety inspection reports.
  • Include healthy food choices on your buffet – veggies and dip, fruit salad or vegetable kabobs are good options. Don’t forget to offer plenty of water and sugar-free beverages for guests as well.

Good Luck on your Job Search

Many people today do not have a job lined up before graduation. If you are completing your education and want to work in the healthcare field here are a few suggestions for new graduates.

  • Check out our jobs page for listings of opportunities at the department and links to state job listings;
  • If you want to work in medicine investigate opportunities at the state's hospitals or community health centers.

Get Immunized

Whether you are continuing your education or entering the workforce, make sure you are up-to-date on all of the recommended vaccinations. Some professions require you to have certain vaccinations. The State’s Immunization Program provides all of the recommended vaccinations at no charge to all Rhode Island children and adolescents up until his or her 19th birthday.

Before you leave school (high school or college) make sure to get a copy of your immunization record. This could save you time and money if you ever need to provide official proof of your vaccination history.