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Program included a simulated car crash with fatality; designed to raise awareness of the perils of drink and driving

Escambia County High School students got a first-hand look at the perils of drinking and driving during a Prom Promise program March 30 on the school grounds.

The program is designed to raise students’ awareness about the harmful effects of drinking and driving.

Local first responders created a simulated crash scene between two vehicles with a fatality. Throughout the program, Atmore Fire Department Lt. Danny White narrated each step.

The program was held a day prior to the ECHS prom, which is slated for tomorrow night, Fri., March 31, at Wind Creek Casino and Hotel.

First responders presented a scenario where two students were driving back from a prom after party, and because they were under the influence of alcohol, crashed into a Walmart employee who was going home from work.

The Atmore Police Department responded on scene first to assess the scene. The Atmore Fire Department soon followed, and extricated the victims from the vehicles.

Medstar Ambulance arrived on scene to assist the injured, and the Alabama State Troopers were called.

Senior Trooper Anna Peoples spoke about the state’s procedure while on scene of a fatality.

People spoke about how she starts her criminal investigation, and reminded the students about making good decisions.

“Everything you do, there is a consequence to your actions,” she said.

Once the troopers were done on scene, the county coroner wheeled the victim who deceased from the scene.

At the end of the program, students recited a Prom Pledge to not use alcohol or other drugs on Prom night, to never drive under the influence or ride with an impaired driver and to always wear a seat belt. The students also pledged to not text and drive.

The pledges were filled out in class.

The APD, AFD, state troopers, Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, The Poarch Creek Indian Tribal Police, MedStar Ambulance and Mayberry Funeral Home partnered for the program.

Castillo’s provided the wrecked vehicles for the simulation.