Yes! It is that time of year again when photos, friends and the phenom better known as "Prom" happens. Oh yes, PROM! What makes Prom such a memorable night? Other than the actual dance this event comes complete with gobs of gaudy gowns and ghastly grooves that make it the biggest night in your high school career.

But not everything about PROM is so positive. More than half of fatal car crashes that occurred during prom season 2000 were alcohol-related. Alcohol is not the only thing that you need to be aware of on Prom night. With all of the hoopla, you definitely need to keep a cool head and be aware of the risks. Use the following tips to have a safe and memorable PROM for 2006.

Prom Pointer #1: What's the 411? Before the festivities begin, talk to your parents about your plans including the people, places, and activities that will surround your PROM night. Leave written details for them and make your safety for PROM night your #1 priority.

Prom Pointer #2: Don't Drink and Drive: Even though teens are less likely than adults to drive after drinking, their crash rates are substantially higher. Alcohol is the number one youth drug problem; it kills six times more people under 21 than all other illicit drugs combined. Store a local cab company's phone number in your cell and don't be afraid to use it.

Prom Pointer #3: Safety in Numbers:

Personal safety starts with knowing your surroundings and never being in a situation that you are not in control of. Don't go anywhere alone and be sure to carry a cell phone with you for the evening.

Ladies please note: Among male high school students, 39 percent say it is acceptable to force sex with a girl who is drunk or high.

Prom Pointer #4: Ride on the Safe Side: Never get in a car with someone who you feel may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol and definitely not the combination of the two. If you aren't sure of their status simply take the safe route and only ride with familiar people that you know are sober.

Prom Pointer #5: Trust your gut: No matter what happens always listen to your instincts, which I like to call your gut. You'll be surprised how strong your gut is so listen to it~ be safe not sorry.

Prom Pointer #6: No Regrets: No matter what~ PROM should be a night full of fun, friends and photos! Unfortunately, for too many, Prom is also an excuse to make bad choices and in turn putting everyone's safety in jeopardy. Don't regret what you did on PROM night…

Prom Pointer #7: OUCH! Ladies, bring an extra pair of comfortable shoes, preferably sneakers not sandals with you and keep in your car for down time. This will be a stressful night for your feet so be good to them when you can! (Hint: Most pictures won't have your feet in them!)

Prom Pointer #8: Where Am I? This is not the question you should ask yourself in the course of the night. Lots of parties or gatherings of some sort tend to happen before and after PROM. Cover all your bases and know where you are going, where you're at and never go to an undisclosed location no matter what. If your plans change, let your people know!

Prom Pointer #9: Cut a Rug: PROM is the perfect time to dust off the ole' shoes and cut a rug! Don't break anything dancing the night away or make your date look bad. Shakin' a tail feather is great comic relief ~keep your eyes peeled!

Prom Pointer #10: Have a Blast! Have a memorable PROM and enjoy yourself! Live it up and be safe because hey, you only live once.

For more information on PROM Safety and various initiatives, please visit my website at www.marissawhitley.com or to ask questions or comment on my column.

Stats Provided by: Mothers Against Drunk Driving (www.madd.org)