With high school graduation and summer fast approaching the Campbell River RCMP is reminding homeowners about the dangers and risks involved with hosting parties, especially where minors are consuming alcohol.
The public should be aware that they can be held civilly liable for any circumstances that stem from consumption on their property whether it’s adults or youth, consuming either drugs or alcohol, Const Sara Clark, Campbell River RCMP media relations officer, said. This includes damage and injury that resulted from unruly or criminal behaviour including things like impaired operation of motor vehicles. This is called host liability and until that person is home safe in their own residence the host can be held civilly accountable for anything that occurs between the host’s property and the person home.
In the case of underage liquor consumption or providing a minor liquor, it also may result in a charge under section 33(1) of the Liquor Control and Licensing Act which carries a fine of $575. This can be issued to the host of the party by the RCMP. If the party is causing a noise disturbance then there is also a public nuisance bylaw under section 6.3 of Campbell River City Bylaw which carries a fine of $250 and can also be issued to the host of the party.
“It is common to talk to parents who think they are doing the right thing by allowing consumption in their home, feeling it’s a controlled environment. They aren’t thinking about being held accountable for the youths’ actions because they facilitated them in entering a state of impairment,” said Const. Clark
The legal drinking age in British Columbia is 19 years of age.
