Alaska Injury Prevention Center administered 870 teen surveys between 2002 and 2005.  Here are some of the findings:

• 61% of the youth surveyed report drinking alcohol (more than a taste or sip)
• 72% of the youth answered that they had their first drink at the age of 14 or younger.  This is critical because research shows that the brain continues to develop until the age of 20.  In addition, statistics show that the earlier one begins drinking the greater chance one has of developing alcholism. 
• 52% of youth surveyed viewed teenage alcohol use a serious problem

The negative effects of school aged alcohol behaviors

• absent from school
• drunk at school
• done poorly at school
• arrested because of alcohol

Youth Indicated the top three deterrents to underage drinking

1. stiffer penalties
2. drivers license suspension
3. alcohol free clubs and teen events

Percentage of crimes where Alcohol was a Factor

• Repeat Child Abuse                               83%
• Motor Vehicle Fatalities and Injuries    80%
• Suicide Attempt and Completion          62%
• Domestic Violence                                 54%
• Sexual Assault                                      51%
• Fire Fatalities