by Chuck Seaver, South Lake Tablet
The Clermont Police Department hosted the 2nd Annual Teen Summit on Thursday, June 4th at the Clermont Police station. The evening summit was structured around the dangers of vaping, smoking tobacco and other illicit substances that are geared towards youth and young adults.
Clermont Police Captain Rob Corbett and Corporal Uziel Dubi led the way in introducing safety tips, awareness methods, and state statutes that are intended to educate parents and youth alike regarding the marketing trickery used in luring “new customers” to the unhealthy world of vaping and smoking.
One of the topics included not only the health risks associated with vaping but also the potential discipline repercussions if caught vaping on school properties. Penalties that can include suspension- even for a first offense, expulsion for repeat violations or possession of large quantities of vape materials, and disciplinary records that can follow- affecting college applications, and scholarships. And finally, schools are required to report violations to law enforcement, that in turn, can issue a civil citation that may require a court appearance, community service time or other punishment.
How to quit information was shared for those that may already be vaping. In a recent medical survey, it was reported that e-cigarette and vaping use led to over 2800 hospitalizations and 68 deaths in a one-year period. The State of Florida offers several programs that are geared toward teen help in quitting.
- Florida: Live Vape Free- Text “VAPEFREE” to 873373 for information on Florida’s free support line. Free, confidential, and built for teens.
- This is Quitting- Text “DITCHVAPE” to 88709 for information on the Truth Initiatives quit program designed specifically for young people.
- Smokefree Teen- Download the “quitStart” app or join text programs at smokefree.gov for free tools, tips, and motivation on your phone.
To complete the informative evening, the police department provided a presentation with one of its four-legged public servants, K9 Mack. K9 Mack is a beautiful and well-trained German Shepard/Mai mix that is 4 years old. Ofc. Mack was purchased in 2022 and immediately began training in tracking, narcotics, building/area searches, apprehension and handler protection. Mack is State of Florida certified through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and is a fulltime and valuable member of the Clermont Police Department under the loving and professional care of Ofc. Kevin Guy.
The police department Is providing several youth-oriented community events during the school summer-break session. Schedules and contact information can be found on the department’s Facebook page, Clermont Police Department (FL) or by calling 352-394-5588.
