Stratford high schoolers spent their day learning about the impacts of impaired driving.
Const. Darren Fischer, Perth OPP Community Engagement Officer Marg Geurts and Perth County Youth Action Committee members addressed the issue at Stratford District Secondary School Thursday.
The committee received a grant from Ontario Students Against Impaired Driving (OSAID) to run events.
Students wore goggles that mimic impairment through alcohol and cannabis and there was a crash car to show students what could happen because of impaired driving.
Committee members Ashley and Urvia said consuming alcohol and drugs has become normalized for people their age.
“Nobody really finds it wrong, so I think it was very important to raise awareness against that since it has been a big, occurring issue in our community and the cities around us,” said Urvia.
“I believe most people don’t realize how bad it can actually be in comparison, especially, when driving,” said Ashley.
Fischer pointed out that youth are at a higher risk of collisions to begin with, due to lack of experience and the increased likelihood of being engaged with risky behaviour.
“Then you add on the element of impairment, which makes it even more concerning. The impacts of impaired driving are obvious, it can result in severe injury, serious collisions that could result in death as well.”
Fischer hopes by educating the students about the risks, it encourages them to spread awareness to other students, peers, and family members, making the message community-wide.
The initiative has received a positive reaction from the students.
They hope to run the event each year.
