By Jeff Devine, Dale County Chronicle
Students at Daleville High were given a powerful and vivid reminder about the dangers of impaired and distracted driving as part of the school’s annual “Prom Promise” program ahead of this week’s junior and senior prom, which is set for this weekend.
The event featured a simulated car crash designed to show students the potential consequences of unsafe decisions behind the wheel. During the demonstration, emergency responders acted out the aftermath of a serious accident, including rescue efforts, medical treatment, and the response of law enforcement.
The mock crash involved participation from the Daleville Police Department and Emergency Services, the Dale County Coroner’s Office, the Level Plains Fire Department, Enterprise Rescue Air 1, and Southern Automotive Services, and actors who all participated in the mock crash as if it were a real emergency situation.
According to information shared by the school, the demonstration allowed juniors and seniors to see firsthand how quickly lives can change when drivers make split-second decisions involving alcohol, drugs, or distractions. The scenario showed first responders extracting victims from a damaged vehicle, providing emergency medical care, and transporting an injured person by helicopter.
In a statement, the coroner’s office emphasized the importance of the event and its message to students.
“Today, Coroner John Cawley, along with the Daleville Department of Public Safety and members of the Level Plains Fire Department, joined the Daleville High School’s Prom Promise in delivering an empowering message of safety and responsibility through a mock accident demonstration,” the statement read. “This reaffirmed our unwavering commitment to serve and protect the youth of our community, Dale County.”
School officials said the goal of the program is to raise awareness about the life-altering consequences that can result from impaired driving and to encourage students to make responsible choices, especially during major events like prom.
Officials also expressed appreciation to the local agencies and community partners who helped stage the demonstration, noting their involvement helped make the experience both realistic and meaningful for students.
The program serves as a reminder that while prom night is meant to be a celebration, safety remains the top priority.
“Our goal is simple,” the school said in its message to students. “We want every student to enjoy prom night and return home safely.” 🚓🚑
*The following images of the mock accident were shared via the Dale County Coroner’s social media account. Photos are of a simulated accident to serve as a cautionary tale of the dangers and real consequences of impaired and distracted driving.
