COBB COUNTY - High school graduation may be a celebration, but the Cobb Alcohol Taskforce stresses that it shouldn't be marked with underage drinking.

"Too many kids are getting into too much trouble with their use of alcohol," said Cathy Fink, coordinator for the Cobb Alcohol Taskforce. "We just want to remind them that graduation should be a happy celebration instead of a celebration with things gone bad."

The group that aims to reduce underage drinking is calling on all parents to remember the laws against underage drinking and to make sure they set boundaries for their children during this special time of year.

While Georgia law allows parents to provide alcohol to their child at their home under direct parental supervision, it is illegal for parents to give any alcohol to their teen's friends.

Fink said that while she understands teens want to celebrate the milestone of graduating high school, she hopes parents remember to use discretion and make it clear to their children that underage drinking is dangerous. She warns parents who might think it's OK to serve alcohol to their underage kids in their own home are often putting their children at the most risk.

"Those parents are so misdirected because they think that the kids are going to drink anyway, so let's keep them safe. The research shows that the kids who get those mixed messages, those are the kids who are much more likely to drive with someone who has been drinking," Fink said.

Cobb County Public Safety Director Mickey Lloyd said Cobb Police will be patrolling the streets looking for underage drinkers, and especially those who are on the roads.

"Cobb County Police will be very cognizant of the fact that it's graduation weekend and it's possible that underage people will be out there drinking and driving. We're going to take the necessary steps to try to prevent it and to apprehend those that do in an effort to save teens' lives and injuries," Lloyd said.

As usual, Lloyd said Cobb Police will respond to all complaints involving noise, loud music or unruly parties.

The Taskforce reminds parents who are having parties to invite and limit guests and party length, set rules, be present and accountable, know their responsibilities and risks for liability, let their neighbors know they're having a party, and inform the parents of any teens who break the party rules.

For parents whose teens will be attending graduation parties, the Taskforce reminds them to know where the teen will be, including the address and phone number, contact the adult hosts of the party to verify their attendance, set a curfew for the teen, know transportation arrangements, and give an open invitation offering a safe ride home if they need one.