Barnsley youngsters get road safety message

Firefighters cut Barnsley students free from a realistic mock car crash, in a bid to highlight the need for young people to drive safely.

More than 400 students watched the hard hitting demonstration at Barnsley College, staged as part of the ‘Drive for life’ event, which is a partnership initiative between South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue, the police and local councils from across the county.

The event was aimed at drivers aged between 17 and 24, one of the most at risks groups of experiencing road traffic accidents, and highlighted the devastating effects of driving whilst distracted or under the influence of drugs and alcohol.

Interative scenarios on issues such as drink driving, texting while driving, speeding and peer group pressure all formed part of the session. It also incorporated video presentations of shocking real life road traffic incidents and a talk from a guest speaker.

SYFR station manager Andy Strelczenie said: “This is an extremely valuable experience for the students many of whom are in the process of learning to drive or have recently passed their test.

“The demonstration is hard hitting so that young people can see the consequences they could be faced with if they choose to go down the wrong path and drive dangerously. We hope it seriously makes them think twice about doing so.”