Colorful dresses light up the floor, smiles and laughs permeating the loud music. Despite all of the fun, someone lingers in the bathroom, throwing up their fancy supper.

Prom is Saturday, and with the annual event comes risks. Counselor and junior class sponsor Robin Terry said it is common for students to consume alcohol the night of prom, regardless of the risks. The first offense of underage drinking is a Class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500. Students who drink must participate in an Alcohol Awareness class, do 8-40 hours of community service and give up their driver’s license for 30-180 days.

“It is a ‘special night,’” Terry said. “A lot of teens want to make a memory. They feel as though doing something ‘crazy’ will make the night memorable. Unfortunately, many students across the nation are arrested or lives are lost during the ‘special night.’”

To avoid the risk of drinking, Terry said students should be proactive.

“Have a plan of what you are going to do and surround yourself with friends who make wise decisions,” Terry said. “Plan an alcohol-free afterprom party yourself and invite others. It is surprising how many students just go to parties because it is only options they feel like they have for prom night. Being different might be hard, but it will be worth it.”

Terry’s advice to students under pressure is to walk away from the risk and consult a parent.

“Use your parents as an excuse,” Terry said. “Talk to your parents ahead of time and have a code word for when you need out. I would say almost 100% of parents would be happy to help you in a situation that is going to be difficult to escape.”

Students are encouraged to sign a “Prom Promise Contract,” which states the student will not drink before, during or after the event. Students who sign the contract will be entered in a drawing for reimbursement of their prom ticket. The drawing will be held between 10:30 and 11:30 p.m. at prom.