In the wake of a recent teen drinking death, Marblehead resident Cynthia Belmer has been hard at work creating informational flyers in order for the community to be more aware of underage drinking.
Belmer, who moved to Marblehead three years ago with her husband and young children, said the tragedy struck a nerve. Her husband grew up in town and lost classmates to drunk-driving crashes years ago.
“When I heard about Savanah’s death, I couldn’t sleep all night,” Belmer said. “I just didn’t want my kids to ask me one day why I hadn’t acted.”
Within hours, Belmer began drafting an informational flyer outlining Massachusetts’ social host laws, which hold adults legally responsible when underage drinking occurs on their property.
“These are basic facts people should know, like seat belt rules,” she said. “Parents and kids alike need to understand the law so they can make life-saving choices.”
Belmer said the effort is about more than statutes. She believes parents must talk openly with their children and assure them they will be supported if they need help.
“Sometimes kids panic when someone passes out and everybody flees,” she said, citing a conversation with a Marblehead police officer. “What’s more important than saving a life?”
She also challenged the idea that allowing teens to drink under supervision keeps them safe.
“Some people think house parties are fine if adults are present, but they’re also teaching kids to break the law,” Belmer said. “They’re sending the message that risky behavior is acceptable as long as it’s hidden.”
Belmer acknowledged Marblehead’s long-standing drinking culture but urged residents to be mindful role models.
“We’re not telling parents to stop drinking,” she said. “But we can all have a healthier relationship with alcohol.”
In a recent statement, Belmer underscored the wider impact of underage gatherings.
“One more thing I want to add about the house parties is that it’s really not only about one kid or two having drinks together,” she said. “These house parties are affecting the entire community’s safety and emotional well-being, as tragedies don’t discriminate.”
Belmer is working with local advocacy groups to distribute the flyers and hopes to see them posted in schools, community centers, and public spaces. Her goal, she said, is to raise awareness before another life is lost.
