With summer in full effect, kids have much more free time on their hands and more opportunities to get into trouble with things like tobacco and alcohol.

According to a news release from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), communication and parental involvement is a major factor in helping parents deal with these issues.

“Parental involvement is key,” said Lt. Darick Wilson, an agent with the State Bureau of Investigation’s Alcohol/Tobacco Enforcement Division. “Some parents may not realize just how important a role they play in preventing underage use of alcohol and tobacco.”

ALEA urges parents to talk to teens and listen to them and inset that kids inform parents have adult supervision.

If a teen has access to a bank account, make sure to monitor their transactions, the news release stated.

According to ALEA, parents should inspect wallets, purses and backpacks for fake IDs, and if parents have alcohol or tobacco products in the home to make sure that it’s locked up if at all possible.

Getting to know a teen’s friends is also a big deal and looking for changes in behavior.

Knowing the law is also important, in Alabama you must be 21 years or older to consume alcohol and 19 and older to use tobacco products.

To report a business that is selling alcohol and tobacco products to minors, contact local law enforcement.