Misuse of opioids has increased nationwide to the point that more people now die of opioid overdose than from any other drug. During an information-packed presentation Tuesday, area parents and other concerned adults can increase their knowledge about this class of drugs and ways to combat its negative impacts.

The 90-minute session begins at 6 p.m. at Alpena Community College’s Granum Theatre.

Donna Hardies, CPS, a community educator on the opioid epidemic and prescription drug abuse from UpNorth Prevention, will address:

¯ opioids, their use, and abuse potential by our youth.

¯ early warning signs that signal potential misuse or abuse.

¯ other significant drug trends like vaping and youth marijuana use.

She’ll also provide information and tools on how to have a “drug talk” with youth. Drug testing, alcohol, and nicotine kits will be available to adults free of charge for use as a prevention tool at home.

Registration is requested by calling Partners In Prevention at 989-356-2880. A limited number of free childcare slots for ages 1-10 are available by reservation.

This Power of Parenting event is one of the monthly workshops during the school year planned by the interagency Parenting Education Team. Financial support is provided by the Alpena-Presque Isle Child Abuse/Neglect Team and United Way of Northeast Michigan. Agencies provide local presenters with expertise on a variety of topics.

The next workshop will be March 19 at Thunder Bay Junior High School. It will be an interactive experience for parents and young children, called “Heads In, Hearts In Family Enrichment” with Danielle Melching of MSU-Extension. At this workshop, children and adults can play, explore and learn together, while practicing important early skills.