Mocktails a safer option for prom night revelry

Each year, thousands of teenagers are killed due to alcohol-related prom night accidents. According to a recent study by Liberty Mutual Insurance and a group called Students Against Destructive Decisions, of the 2,500 11th and 12th graders polled, 90 percent of teens believe their counterparts are more likely to drink and drive on prom night. Another 79 percent believe the same is true for graduation night.

Drinking and prom night is a concern for educators and parents. In an effort to curb alcohol consumption, some schools have instituted policies for weeknight proms with mandatory school attendance the next day. Others have resorted to advertising campaigns that highlight the dangers of drinking and fatality rates associated with drinking among teenagers.

Although alcohol consumption seems to be a rite of passage among high schoolers, teens can take an active roll in eliminating alcohol from prom night festivities. One way to do this is to enjoy "mocktails" instead of the real thing. This allows teens to create festive drinks for the occasion without the dangers of alcohol.

Just about any drink can be made without the addition of alcohol. Substitute alcohol with ginger ale or lemon-lime soda in daiquiris or pina coladas. Or, for a special treat just for your big night, consider a minty chocolate frozen concoction that will add fun and flavor.

Chocolate-Mint Tropical Freeze

2 ounces mint chocolate ice cream

1 ounce coconut milk

2 ounces half and half or milk

Chocolate syrup for drizzle

Crushed ice

Blend all ingredients except chocolate syrup together until well mixed and frothy. Serve in a martini glass or another small glass. Drizzle chocolate syrup over the top for garnish. Enjoy.