Scotch Plains–Fanwood High School seniors gathered on Happel Court during their physical education class and saw a car crashed into a tree. Luckily, this was a simulation, part of the “Raiders Don’t Risk It” program presented by SPF DECA ,the District Student Assistance Coordinator, the Scotch Plains Police and Fire Departments, the Fanwood Police and Rescue Squads, Resolve Counseling Center and the Municipal Alliance.
The program is designed to show the aftermath of distracted and destructive driving. In the simulation, actors from the class of 2019 presented a scenario where the students had “just one drink.” The scene played out where the driver was arrested and one of the occupants of the car did not survive the crash. The rescue squad and fire department simulated the life saving measures that are taken at the scene. In addition to the students and emergency services, parents and teachers took on the roles of parents of the victims. This was done in order to reinforce the idea that many people are impacted by the decisions that one makes.
After the presentation, police officers explained the realities of distracted and destructive driving. According to the CDC, the leading cause of death amongst 15-19 year olds is car crash related injuries. Officers expressed how one simple poor decision can have lifelong consequences.
The program was presented to seniors during their physical education classes. This smaller setting allowed the students to be able to ask questions of the officers and emergency personnel. After the presentation, students were able to debrief with their physical education teachers.
(above) Fanwood Officer Elliott Bernard addresses students during the “Raiders Don’t Risk It” program.
Photo by Scotch Plains-Fanwood Public Schools
