Groton — Groton Alliance for Substance Abuse Prevention is revisiting Project 21, a substance use prevention program focusing on preventing underage drinking.

This continuing initiative, which will focus on educating community members, families and area bars and restaurants, highlights the importance of not selling or serving alcohol to people under age 21 for legal, health and safety purposes, according to a news release.

GASP is focusing this summer on retail availability and preventing underage sales and service.

“GASP has been the leader in prevention in Groton for 22 years,” coordinator Carolyn Wilson said in a statement. "We are committed to addressing the public health concern of underage drinking through a variety of focused interventions. We are ready to implement our plans, but we need the support and buy-in from local establishments. Together, we can ensure a safer environment for young people.”

GASP said free online vouchers for Training and Intervention Procedures, or TIPs, training, an evidence-based strategy for those who sell or serve alcohol to prevent underage drinking, drinking to excess and driving under the influence, are available for Groton and Mystic establishments looking to enhance their staff training. Some establishments also may need their staff trained for insurance purposes. GASP is offering vouchers to both package stores and bars and restaurants while supplies last.

"In addition to training opportunities, participating business will also receive a packet containing information about underage drinking prevention, a guide on how to properly check IDs and reminders on the legal issues they could face if they serve underage patrons," the release states. "Businesses are encouraged to tighten policies for their staff to ensure that they never serve to a minor and always pass compliance checks."

TIPs certificates will be awarded when the participant completes the course and passes the exam online.