Massapequa Hosts Pre-Prom Car Accident Simulation

With senior prom and other festivities on the horizon, Massapequa High School, in partnership with the Massapequa Fire Department and the Nassau County Police Department, conducted an extremely realistic Motor Vehicle Accident Simulation on the school’s football field as a way to “shock and awe” more than 1,200 juniors and seniors into avoiding dangerous behaviors that could put their lives at risk.

“We want you to see the agony and anguish firefighters go through every day so you don’t make a decision that could be fatal,” said Massapequa Fire Chief Gerard Keuchler to the crowd.

The biennial event, first brought to Massapequa High School five years ago, consists of a staged, two-car auto accident involving an intoxicated driver and multiple victims, played by members of the high school’s drama department and the Massapequa Fire Department Juniors.

One victim ends up on the hood of a car, DOA, while the driver staggers out of the car obviously under the influence. The Massapequa Fire Department handles extrication, patient care and removal of victims utilizing heavy rescue vehicles and the Jaws of Life, while the Nassau County Police Department simulates a DWI test and subsequent arrest. An NCPD helicopter landing simulates a medical evacuation from the scene.

“We do everything we can to make it as real as possible so students can make the right choices … so they call their parents and say they need help when they are in a situation that puts them at risk,” said Massapequa firefighter Stuart Paolino who coordinates the event with Keuchler. “Looking up into the crowd, he said, “We saved a life today.”

Principal Dr. Barbara Williams reiterated the importance of making positive decisions, noting three classmates that lost their lives in her graduating class. “You don’t want to be in a position where you are mourning your friends, your classmates or your family members,” she said. “The prom is on June 12 and graduation is on June 22. We want you to be present at these events and we want you to be healthy.”

“This simulation, along with consistent reinforcement of the importance of healthy choices, is an invaluable opportunity to positively impact our students in our fight against DWI and other destructive decisions,” said Lucille F. Iconis, superintendent of Massapequa School District.

“We thank the Massapequa Fire Department, the Nassau County Police Department and our student actors for driving home such a powerful, life-saving message.”

Submitted by Massapequa Schools

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