Trusted Insurance Solutions in Santa Cruz County – Protecting Your Business, Farm & Family
Living and working in Santa Cruz County offers incredible opportunities—but it also comes with unique risks. From coastal weather exposures to agricultural operations and growing local businesses, having the right insurance coverage is essential. At Scurich Insurance Services, we help individuals, families, and business owners in Watsonville and surrounding communities protect what matters most.
With access to over 50 top-rated insurance carriers, we provide customized coverage solutions designed to fit your specific needs—not a one-size-fits-all policy.
Comprehensive Insurance Solutions for Santa Cruz County
Whether you’re running a business, managing a farm, or protecting your home and family, Scurich Insurance Services offers a full range of coverage options:
- Commercial Insurance Packages – Tailored policies that combine general liability, property, and other essential protections
- Farm & Agricultural Insurance – Specialized farm packages with potential Farm Bureau discounts
- Workers’ Compensation – Protect your employees and stay compliant with California regulations
- Professional Liability – Coverage for service-based businesses facing errors & omissions risks
- Umbrella Insurance – Additional liability protection beyond standard policy limits
- Group Benefits – Group health, life, and employee benefits to attract and retain talent
- Personal Insurance – Auto, home, life, and health coverage for individuals and families
Local Expertise That Makes a Difference
Insurance isn’t just about policies—it’s about understanding risk. Our team works closely with you to evaluate your exposures and build a smart risk management strategy. Whether you’re a small business owner, a contractor, or part of Santa Cruz County’s agricultural community, we bring local knowledge and industry insight to every recommendation.
We understand the challenges faced by businesses in Watsonville, Aptos, Santa Cruz, and surrounding areas—from liability concerns to employee coverage and long-term planning.
Why Choose Scurich Insurance Services?
- Access to 50+ insurance carriers for competitive options
- Customized coverage strategies based on your unique needs
- Local expertise in Santa Cruz County industries
- Risk management guidance beyond just selling policies
- Responsive, relationship-driven service
Protect What You’ve Built
Your business, your farm, your home – these aren’t just assets. They represent years of hard work and dedication. Having the right insurance coverage ensures you’re prepared for the unexpected while positioning yourself for long-term success.
At Scurich Insurance Services, we don’t just provide insurance—we help you plan wisely, reduce risk, and move forward with confidence.
Serving Watsonville & All of Santa Cruz County
We proudly serve clients throughout Watsonville and the greater Santa Cruz County area. Whether you’re reviewing your current policies or starting fresh, our team is ready to help you find the right protection at the right price.
Contact Scurich Insurance Services today to review your coverage and discover better options tailored to your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of insurance does Scurich Insurance Services offer?We offer a full range of insurance solutions including commercial packages, farm insurance, workers’ compensation, professional liability, umbrella coverage, group benefits, and personal insurance such as auto, home, life, and health.
Do you serve businesses in Watsonville and nearby areas?Yes. We proudly serve Watsonville, Santa Cruz, Aptos, and surrounding communities throughout Santa Cruz County with tailored insurance solutions and risk management support.
Can you help with farm and agricultural insurance?Absolutely. We specialize in farm insurance packages and can help identify Farm Bureau discount opportunities, liability protection, property coverage, and workers’ compensation for agricultural operations.
Why should I work with an independent insurance agency?As an independent agency, we represent over 50 insurance carriers. This allows us to compare options and customize coverage that best fits your needs, rather than offering a single carrier solution.
Do you provide risk management guidance?Yes. Beyond insurance policies, we help clients evaluate risks, plan strategically, and make informed decisions to better protect their business, farm, and personal assets.
Looking for better protection? Let Scurich Insurance Services help you build a smarter insurance strategy today.
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Spring brings longer days, warmer weather, and everything in bloom—but for many people, it also means the return of seasonal allergies. Whether you’re at home, at work, or enjoying the outdoors, common allergens can quickly turn a beautiful day into an uncomfortable one.
Understanding what triggers your allergies—and how to manage them—can make a big difference in how you feel throughout the season.
Common Spring Allergy Triggers
Allergens are everywhere this time of year. While pollen is often the biggest culprit, many everyday items can also cause reactions. Some of the most common triggers include:
- Pollen from trees, grass, and flowers
- Dust and dust mites
- Mold (especially in damp areas)
- Pet dander
- Cleaning products and household chemicals
- Perfumes and scented products
- Smoke and air pollution
Recognizing Allergy Symptoms
Allergy symptoms can range from mild to severe and may vary from person to person. Keep an eye out for:
- Sneezing and congestion
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Skin irritation or rashes
- Headaches or sinus pressure
- Trouble breathing or wheezing (in more serious cases)
If symptoms become severe or interfere with your daily routine, it’s important to seek medical advice.
Tips to Reduce Allergy Exposure
While you can’t completely avoid allergens, a few simple habits can help reduce your exposure and keep symptoms under control:
- Keep windows closed on high-pollen days
- Shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors
- Use high-efficiency air filters in your home
- Clean regularly to reduce dust and mold buildup
- Avoid strong fragrances and harsh cleaning products
- Monitor local pollen counts and plan outdoor activities accordingly
Don’t Let Allergies Disrupt Your Routine
Spring should be a time to enjoy the outdoors—not avoid it. With a little preparation and awareness, you can manage allergy symptoms and stay comfortable throughout the season.
For those with more serious allergies, keeping medications on hand and having a plan in place can help you respond quickly if symptoms flare up.
Protecting Your Health and Peace of Mind
At Scurich Insurance Services, we believe that protecting your well-being goes beyond insurance—it’s about helping you stay prepared for life’s everyday risks, big and small. Whether it’s your health, your home, or your business, having the right protections in place allows you to focus on what matters most.
If you have questions about coverage options for your home, business, or employees, our team is always here to help.
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Tax season can feel overwhelming—whether you’re filing as an individual, self-employed professional, or small business owner. As the April deadline approaches, a little preparation can go a long way in reducing stress, avoiding penalties, and even uncovering savings opportunities.
At Scurich Insurance Services in Aptos, CA, we work with individuals and businesses across Santa Cruz and Monterey counties to not only protect what matters—but also help identify smart financial and insurance strategies during tax season.
Here are several last-minute tax season tips to help you stay organized, maximize deductions, and make informed insurance decisions.
Choose the Right Tax Preparer
If you haven’t already scheduled time with a tax professional, now is the time.
A qualified tax preparer can:
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Ensure your return is accurate and compliant
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Help identify deductions you may have missed
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Provide guidance on business expenses, including insurance
For business owners, working with someone familiar with your industry can be especially valuable.
Consider Filing for an Extension
If you’re not fully prepared, filing for an extension can give you additional time to complete your return properly.
However, keep in mind:
This can be especially helpful for businesses still organizing financials or waiting on documentation.
Pay Estimated Taxes (If Applicable)
For self-employed individuals and businesses, estimated tax payments are critical.
Underpaying can result in:
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Penalties
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Interest charges
Work with your tax advisor to ensure your estimated payments are as accurate as possible.
Maximize Retirement Contributions
Tax season is also a great opportunity to reduce taxable income through retirement contributions.
Consider:
These contributions may still be made up to the tax filing deadline and could lower your overall tax liability.
Organize Financial Documents
Proper organization saves time—and money.
Gather and sort:
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Proof of income (W-2s, 1099s, business income records)
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Expense receipts
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Bank and credit card statements
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Mileage logs
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Insurance premium statements
For business owners, separating expenses into categories like insurance, office costs, and travel makes tax preparation much smoother.
Don’t Overlook Insurance Deductions
Many individuals and business owners miss valuable deductions related to insurance.
Depending on your situation, you may be able to deduct:
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Business insurance premiums (general liability, professional liability, etc.)
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Commercial property insurance
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Workers’ compensation insurance
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Health insurance premiums (for self-employed individuals)
Review your policies with both your tax preparer and insurance advisor to ensure you’re taking full advantage.
Double Check Income Accuracy
The IRS closely tracks reported income.
Make sure:
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All income sources are included
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1099s and other statements match your records
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Digital payments and side income are accounted for
Accurate reporting helps avoid audits and penalties.
Consider Hiring a Bookkeeper
If your records are disorganized, a bookkeeper can be a worthwhile investment.
They can:
This is especially helpful for growing businesses that need cleaner financial visibility year-round.
Review Your Insurance Coverage During Tax Season
Tax time is also the perfect moment to evaluate your insurance.
Ask yourself:
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Have my business operations changed this year?
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Do I have adequate liability coverage?
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Have my assets increased in value?
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Am I overpaying for outdated policies?
An annual insurance review can uncover both coverage gaps and cost-saving opportunities.
Plan Ahead for Next Year
Once this year’s taxes are filed, take note of improvements you can make:
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Track expenses monthly instead of annually
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Use digital tools for mileage and receipts
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Review insurance policies proactively
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Adjust estimated tax payments if needed
Small changes can make next year’s tax season significantly easier.
Simplify Tax Season with the Right Support
Tax season doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation—and the right partners—you can file confidently and even improve your financial position.
At Scurich Insurance Services , we’re here to help individuals and businesses align their insurance with their financial goals.
Whether you’re reviewing policies for potential deductions, updating coverage, or planning ahead, our team is ready to assist.
Contact Scurich Insurance Services – Aptos, CA
Make this tax season work for you—not against you.
Reach out today for a policy review and discover how the right insurance strategy can support both protection and long-term financial success.
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What Central Coast Businesses and Homeowners Need to Know
The Central
Coast has seen its share of intense weather in recent years — from heavy winter storms and localized flooding to coastal surge events and wind damage. Communities in Aptos, Santa Cruz, Monterey, and Salinas continue to feel the impact of shifting weather patterns that bring stronger storms and longer recovery periods.
For homeowners, landlords, contractors, agricultural operations, and business owners, now is the time to review insurance coverage and ensure you’re protected before the next storm hits.
At Scurich Insurance Services in Aptos, CA, we work with families and businesses throughout Santa Cruz County and Monterey County to help them prepare for real-world risks — not just theoretical ones.
Why Storm & Flood Risk Is Increasing on the Central Coast
Recent weather patterns have brought:
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Heavier-than-normal rainfall totals
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Flooded roadways and low-lying neighborhoods
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Mudslides and erosion near burn scar areas
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Wind damage to homes and commercial properties
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Agricultural field saturation in the Salinas Valley
Coastal communities like Aptos and Santa Cruz are particularly vulnerable to:
Meanwhile, areas in Monterey and Salinas often face:
Even properties that have “never flooded before” have experienced water intrusion in recent seasons.
Does Your Homeowners Insurance Cover Flooding?
This is one of the biggest misconceptions we see.
Standard homeowners insurance does NOT cover flood damage.
Flood insurance typically requires a separate policy. This applies whether you live:
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Near the coast in Aptos or Santa Cruz
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Near the Salinas River
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In lower-elevation areas of Monterey
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In inland agricultural zones
If water enters your home from rising ground water, storm runoff, or overflowing creeks — that is generally considered flood damage.
Without a flood policy, repairs can come entirely out of pocket.
What Homeowners Should Review Right Now
If you own a home in Santa Cruz or Monterey County, review:
1. Dwelling Coverage Limits
Are your rebuild limits updated for today’s construction costs?
2. Sewer & Drain Backup Coverage
Storm systems can overwhelm municipal infrastructure. This endorsement can be critical.
3. Flood Insurance Options
Even moderate-risk zones may benefit from coverage.
4. Deductibles
Some policies have percentage deductibles for wind or named storms.
5. Landscaping & Outbuildings
Retaining walls, detached garages, fencing, and outdoor structures may have limited coverage.
Business Owners: Storm Risk Is More Than Just Property Damage
If you operate a business in Aptos, Santa Cruz, Monterey, or Salinas, storms can disrupt:
Important Coverage Areas to Review:
Commercial Property Insurance
Protects buildings, improvements, and contents.
Business Interruption Insurance
Helps replace lost income if you must temporarily close.
Equipment Breakdown Coverage
Covers electrical systems damaged by power surges or outages.
Flood Insurance for Commercial Property
Separate from standard commercial property policies.
Agricultural & Winery Considerations in Monterey & Salinas
The Salinas Valley is one of the most productive agricultural regions in the country. Excessive rain, wind, and flooding can impact:
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Crops
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Irrigation systems
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Equipment
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Storage facilities
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Access roads
Specialized agricultural coverage and crop insurance programs may be necessary to properly protect operations.
Coastal Property Risks in Aptos & Santa Cruz
Properties near the ocean face additional exposure to:
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Salt air corrosion
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Elevated wind exposure
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Coastal erosion
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Wave surge
Insurance carriers evaluate proximity to the coastline carefully. Premiums and deductibles may vary significantly based on location.
Working with a local agency that understands Central Coast geography can make a real difference in proper policy placement.
Why Local Experience Matters
Insurance isn’t one-size-fits-all — especially in areas with unique weather and geographic conditions like Santa Cruz and Monterey counties.
A local agency understands:
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Neighborhood-specific flood patterns
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Coastal wind zones
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Agricultural exposures
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Construction cost trends in the region
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Carrier appetite changes after major storm seasons
At Scurich Insurance Services in Aptos, CA, we take a proactive approach — reviewing policies before problems arise.
Storm Preparedness Checklist
Before the next major weather event:
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✔ Review your insurance policies
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✔ Confirm flood coverage (if needed)
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✔ Document property with photos
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✔ Clear drainage systems and gutters
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✔ Secure outdoor furniture and equipment
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✔ Create a business continuity plan
Preparedness reduces both physical damage and financial stress.
Protect Your Property Before the Next Storm
Storm seasons on the Central Coast have become less predictable. Waiting until a major system is forecasted is often too late — especially for flood coverage, which may have waiting periods before activation.
If you live or operate a business in:
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Aptos
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Santa Cruz
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Monterey
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Salinas
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Watsonville
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Capitola
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Carmel
Now is the right time for a coverage review.
Contact Scurich Insurance Services – Aptos, CA
Whether you’re protecting your home, business, rental property, or agricultural operation, our team can help you evaluate options and identify coverage gaps.
Insurance is about preparation — and preparation starts before the storm clouds gather.
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Super Bowl Sunday is one of the biggest entertaining days of the year. From packed living rooms and big-screen TVs to food, drinks, and cheering guests, it’s a great time to bring people together. But hosting a Super Bowl party also comes with responsibilities — and potential insurance risks many homeowners overlook.
At Scurich Insurance Services, we help homeowners understand how their insurance coverage applies when hosting gatherings like Super Bowl parties. Here’s what you should know before kickoff.
Homeowners Liability Coverage When Hosting a Super Bowl Party
When guests are invited into your home, your homeowners or renters insurance typically provides personal liability coverage if someone is injured on your property. This coverage may help pay for medical expenses, legal defense, and damages if you’re found responsible.
Common Super Bowl party claims can include:
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Slip-and-fall injuries from spilled drinks or crowded areas
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Accidental injuries during celebrations
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Property damage to or caused by guests
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Claims related to unsafe conditions inside or outside the home
Coverage limits vary, and serious injuries can exceed standard policy limits — making it important to review your protection ahead of time.
Alcohol & Social Host Liability Risks
Alcohol is often part of Super Bowl celebrations, but serving alcohol increases your exposure to liability. In certain situations, a host may be held responsible if an intoxicated guest causes injury or property damage after leaving the party.
To reduce risk:
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Serve food and provide non-alcoholic beverages
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Avoid over-serving alcohol
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Stop alcohol service well before the end of the party
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Encourage ride-shares, designated drivers, or overnight stays
Some homeowners policies offer limited protection for hosting events, but coverage details differ by policy and situation.
For additional guidance, see:
https://www.scurichinsurance.com/super-bowl-party-considerations-before-serving-alcohol-to-party-guests/
Preventing Common Super Bowl Party Accidents
Simple precautions can significantly reduce the chance of injuries and insurance claims:
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Keep walkways, hallways, and entry areas clear
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Secure loose rugs, cords, and decorations
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Clean spills promptly
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Move fragile or valuable items out of high-traffic areas
Accident prevention protects both your guests and your financial well-being.
Is Your Liability Insurance Enough?
Standard homeowners and renters insurance includes liability coverage, but limits may not be sufficient if a serious injury occurs. Medical bills and legal costs can escalate quickly.
A personal umbrella insurance policy can provide additional liability protection beyond your homeowners or auto insurance limits. For homeowners who frequently entertain, this extra layer of coverage can be a smart and affordable safeguard.
Talk to Scurich Insurance Services Before Game Day
Before hosting your Super Bowl party, take a few minutes to review your insurance coverage. Scurich Insurance Services can help you understand your homeowners or renters policy, evaluate liability limits, and identify coverage gaps — so you can host with confidence.
Contact Scurich Insurance Services today to schedule a coverage review or discuss liability protection options.
Enjoy the game, enjoy your guests, and let your insurance coverage work quietly in the background — exactly where it belongs.
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Observed from January 22-27, 2019, National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week (NDAFW) exists to educate teens about substance abuse and addiction. It connects teens and scientific experts. Your business can participate in NDAFW as you support your employees and their loved ones.
What is NDAFW?
NDAFW started in 2010. In 2018, over 2,100 NDAFW events were hosted by schools, community groups, hospitals, and other organizations. These events provide education and information about specific community concerns or general drug or alcohol use.
Why does NDAFW Matter to your Company?
Your company will want to participate in NDAFW events if you employ teens. This information can empower them to understand the effects, challenges and dangers of drug and alcohol use, including accidental exposure, opioid pain medication, experimentation, and peer pressure.
NDAFW participation also helps your adult employees. Many of your staff members may have family, friends, neighbors, or acquaintances who have been affected by substance abuse or addiction. Use NDAFW events and awareness to address these concerns, help employees to help their affected loved ones and address personal drug or alcohol dependency.
You can also use NDAFW to make a difference in your community. Sponsor, host or advertise NDAFW events as you take a leadership role and start conversations about substance use and addiction.
How to Support NDAFW
Because it’s important, encourage your employees to support NDAFW in several ways.
- Take the National Drug and Alcohol IQ Challenge. It’s a 12-question, multiple choice quiz that’s available in English and Spanish. The quiz takes 10 minutes to complete and can be accessed on a mobile device by individual employees or projected onto a large screen, allowing your entire company to take the quiz together and learn more about the challenges teens face.
- Observe the National Drugs and Alcohol Chat Day on January 24. Scientists and science writers will answer questions from teens across the country. Topics include drugs and drug misuse, addiction and its effects, and how to help loved ones who are abusing drugs.
- Share information about NDAFW on your corporate and personal social media pages and include the hashtag #NDAFW.
- Write and record a public service announcement about teen drug and alcohol use or sponsor PSAs written and recorded by local high school students.
- Spread the word with brochures and posters about local events.
- Sponsor an event, such as Lunch and Learn, at a local school.
- Add information about drug and alcohol use, addiction prevention tips and recovery information to your employee handbook.
- Encourage employees to use their health insurance to get help if necessary.
National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week is important to your company, employees and community. Participate this year as you make a difference.
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