It’s that time of year. The prom is Saturday.

Teenagers will be peppered with warnings about alcohol and drug abuse. And rightly so, for in order to make the prom a special night, injuries, fatalities, date rape or other bad news shouldn’t be part of the mix.

It is an expensive night, full of hopes and high expectations.

Sometimes, the fun becomes self-indulgent and leads to risky behaviors.

Talk to your teenagers about prom night. Make sure you know where, when and with whom they are going to be.

Ask yourself: Do you want your child at an after-prom party where there isn’t a parent? Don’t just let your kid go out the door on prom night. Make sure you ask too many questions and make sure you are in the know.

Furthermore, parents have a responsibility that night, too. Be ready — as you should be any night your kids are out — to come get your son or daughter no matter where he or she calls from. For instance, if your child is standing on the side of the road because he or she didn’t want to get in a car with a drunken driver and instead called you for a ride home, then be proud of your teen for making a grown-up choice and go pick your kid up.

When tragedy strikes, too often people are seen on the TV news saying: “I never imagined it could happen here.”

It can happen here. Be prepared for a safe, happy and hopeful prom night. Nobody wants to hear bad news.