ARCHIVED - Orihuela launches drug and alcohol awareness campaign
The council has teamed up with the Unit for the Prevention of Addictive Behaviours of Orihuela (UPCCA) in the Vega Baja, Alicante province
A new campaign has been launched by Orihuela council under the slogan 'This summer - Touch. No alcohol, No Drugs. With Responsibility' which aims to raise awareness about the dangers of alcohol and drug use over the coming months.
"The summer holidays are usually a time of year when more alcohol and drugs are consumed and the Unit for the Prevention of Addictive Behaviours of Orihuela UPCCA informs us that it is very important to warn of the dangers from an early age. Unfortunately, young people have less risk perception and are not aware of how dangerous the consumption of these totally harmful substances is", says councillor for health, José Galiano.
The campaign will consist of audiovisual material and posters, as well as regular posts on social networks, "to raise awareness of the need to enjoy leisure and free time responsibly".
The local authority says it is aware that following the end of the State of Alarm and the relaxation of Covid measures, young people are eager to regain a "longed-for normality", and could be tempted to take part in street and beach drinking sessions, known as botellones, "which could in some cases lead to drug use".
Every weekend, the police have to intervene in the massive street parties, as well as deal with drunken fights and dangerous driving, and despite hefty fines of up to €30,000 in the Valencia region, and the risk of Covid contagion, botellones continue.
"Through this campaign, we are trying to make visible the dangers and promote healthy behaviours", adds Galiano.
IMAGE: Ayuntamiento de Orihuela