Offer good role modeling

Start teaching your child about alcohol from an early age

Explain the downside of heavy drinking, such as vomiting, head spins, passing out and hangovers

Educate them on the links between dangerous behaviour, such as unsafe sex, and drinking

Teach them sensible tactics for when they are of-age such as standard drink recommendations, 'pacing' themselves, alternating alcohol drinks with non-alcoholic beverages and not drinking on an empty stomach

Talk about the dangers of drunk driving and plan alternatives together, such as public transport, designated drivers or calling home

Encourage your child to talk about the dangers of alcohol with their friends, so they can come up with ways to look out for each other

Source: ParentingTeens.about.com