Pubdate: Fri, 21 Oct 2005
Source: Leduc Representative (CN AB)
Copyright: 2005 Leduc Representative
Contact:  http://www.leducrepresentative.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2265
Author: Tarwinder Chahil
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?241 (Methamphetamine - Canada)

AADAC RAISING PUBLIC AWARENESS OF METH

The Alberta Alcohol and Drug Abuse Commission
(AADAC) has created two new television commercials in hopes of
preventing crystal methamphetamine use in Alberta.

The commercials, which began airing Oct. 12, show how meth can affect
a user's health, relationships and identity.

"We want the public to understand that meth is a dangerous drug and
that parents need to talk to their children about it," said AADAC
youth services senior manager Marilyn Mitchell.

"By using a commercial, we're hoping to grab the public's attention
and direct them to our website where they can gain more knowledge
about drugs."

The television campaign is part of the Alberta government's response
to meth, which includes support for local anti-drug coalitions,
education and enforcement and treatment initiatives. The campaign will
run for four weeks and costs $450,000.

"While the crystal meth addict isn't going to be impacted by these
commercials, the information needs to be out there for communities,"
said Mitchell, adding violence and crime are often connected to the
production and distribution of meth.

"The toxicity and quality of meth allows people to stay high for a
long time and production increases the amount available on the
streets," she said.

"Meth use doesn't just affect users, but those who are producing the
drug are using highly toxic chemicals and when they dispose of these
chemicals, it puts the entire community at risk."

Mitchell said the AADAC commercials are part of a larger commitment of
creating a network of partners involving community members, police and
youth.

The commercials were developed with input from youth and parents in
numerous communities. Visit www.aadac.com. 
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MAP posted-by: Richard Lake