Protecting young people at the funfair: the council appeals to parents and adults

Ahead of the upcoming funfair, the council's Youth and Family and Public Order departments are calling for a responsible approach to alcohol. They are reminding the public of the provisions of the Youth Protection Act and of the responsibilities of parents, catering establishments and business owners. There is also a general ban on cannabis on the funfair grounds and in the immediate vicinity.

The fair is just round the corner, and many children and young people are eagerly looking forward to the colourful festivities. However, as well as fun and entertainment, the fair also presents challenges when it comes to protecting young people. In particular, risky and excessive alcohol consumption can have serious health consequences for young people.

It is particularly common during the fair for young people to drink too much. This can lead to alcohol poisoning, which carries serious health risks. As children and young people are still developing, their bodies are particularly sensitive to alcohol. Furthermore, many young people underestimate the effects and dangers of excessive drinking. Education and prevention are therefore particularly important.

Parents have an important role to play in this regard. The City of Bocholt recommends talking to your own children early on and openly about alcohol, its effects and the potential risks of addiction. The fair provides a good opportunity to agree on rules and boundaries together. The Department for Youth and Family Affairs urges all parents to fulfil their responsibilities during the fair, to keep the lines of communication open with their children and to ensure that youth protection regulations are observed.

The Youth Protection Act sets clear limits in this regard. As a general rule, those under 16 are not permitted to buy or drink alcohol. From the age of 16, beer, wine and sparkling wine are permitted. Spirits, schnapps, liqueurs, alcopops and other spirits-based drinks may only be sold to those aged 18 and over. The same age limit applies to tobacco products, cannabis, e-cigarettes and e-shishas. Anyone who sells or passes on these products to minors is breaking the law and faces criminal consequences.

There are also strict rules governing attendance at restaurants and dance venues. As a general rule, those under the age of 16 may only be present there if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. 16- and 17-year-olds may remain unaccompanied until midnight. Adults, pub and restaurant owners, and business operators therefore bear a special responsibility. They are required to comply with the legal provisions and to play an active role in protecting young people.

Regardless of age, there is a general ban on cannabis use on the fairground and in the immediate vicinity during the fair. This is based on a general order issued by the City of Bocholt. Further information is available at www.bocholt.de/kirmes.

""The fair should be an enjoyable experience for everyone. This includes ensuring that children and young people are protected and that the rules on the protection of minors are observed,"" explains Bocholt's Deputy Mayor Björn Volmering, ""and this works best when everyone involved pulls together.""