Mock crash serves as a real reminder
Sirens blared as local fire and police departments descended on the campus of Keystone Oaks High School last week, a very real response to the mock crash staged in the parking lot.
Juniors and seniors from Keystone Oaks and nearby Seton-La Salle High School witnessed a demonstration April 16 of what can happen after a night of drinking and driving.
“You can tell people, but when you actually see the people [in the mock crash], it has a lot more effect on you,” said Seton-La Salle senior Kevin Hayes, who had a part in the scripted program.
School districts across the nation hold such mock crashes at this time of year as students prepare for the prom and graduation season, which traditionally brings lots of parties. Keystone Oaks also hosted a related assembly presented by Cpl. James Hughes of the Mt. Lebanon police.
First responders on the scene of the crash included police and fire departments from Castle Shannon, Dormont and Green Tree as well as Medical Rescue Team South Authority and a Life Flight helicopter from Allegheny Health Network.
“Your driving doesn’t just affect you,’’ Nancy Kraemer, a high school teacher who organized the event, told the students. “The decisions you make aren’t just impacting you.’’
The program apparently delivered that message.
“It isn’t just you and your friends, this affects the whole community,” said Moira Stuart, a senior at Seton-La Salle.
In 2013, a total of 10,076 people died in drunken-driving crashes in the United States, according to Mothers Against Drunk Driving.
Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for young people age 15 to 20, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says.
Keystone Oaks High School principal Scott Hagy reminded the students that while this time of year can be fun, they have to be mindful of what they are doing.
“We hope some of the things we talk about today stay in the back of your mind,” Mr. Hagy said.
Cpl. Hughes reminded students to always wear their seat belts. “You dramatically increase your chance of survival if you do,’’ he said.
He added that driving while distracted can be as dangerous as drinking and driving.
“Your focus should be on driving,” he said, reminding students to never text and drive.
He summed it up this way: “When you drive, you should drive.’’