Kelowna RCMP cautions students about back-to-school bush party

School is back in session this week and that means a lot of different things for students depending on their age.

For many of the older high school kids, it means a back-to-school bush party that the Kelowna RCMP says could involve “questionable behaviour.”

"A lot of our local high school students are talking about having the traditional ‘Passing of the Torch Party’ this week. This party usually involves large amounts of people and alcohol,” explained Cst. Angulo.

“We want to remind students of the importance of good citizenry in this current climate- it is everyone's responsibility to help stop the spread of COVID-19.”

Angulo added that everyone needs to abide by federal and provincial laws, municipal bylaws and the provincial health officer’s orders.

As a result, the RCMP is encouraging parents to have a frank and open discussion with high school aged students about celebrating safely.

“Let your children know that you are open to conversations with them and want to hear their thoughts,” says an RCMP statement.

“You can do this in a casual or a more planned way (for example, at a family meeting).”

The RCMP suggests a few helpful tips to open up the discussion:

• Try to avoid lecturing or sermonizing and focus more on having an open discussion;
• Keep a relaxed attitude and encourage your children to ask questions and to tell you what they think;
• Try to understand your child's point of view;
• Don't expect teens to agree with you about everything just because you are the parent. (Keep in mind, though, that parents have rights too!);
• Develop active listening skills;
• Be as concise and objective as possible when explaining the facts about drugs and discussing the pros and cons.