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Shocking aftermath of a collision revealed to shoppers in a staged event in Poole |
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30 November 2009
****PRESS RELEASE****
Shocking aftermath of a collision revealed to shoppers in a staged event in Poole during national road safety week, shoppers in the Sainsbury’s car park in Talbot Heath in Poole were given a firsthand experience of the shocking aftermath of a collision in a staged crash between a car and a bicycle.
The demonstration involved casualties being removed from the vehicle, with the emergency services working together as they would during a real incident. Willing volunteer casualties including Deputy Store Manager Gary Lacey, were chosen from the crowd to be cut from the car by firefighters and stretchered off.
Dorset Fire and Rescue Service crews from Redhill and Westbourne fire stations and the fire service Casualty Care Instructor team were joined by LV= Streetwise, Bournemouth and Poole Road Safety Officers, the local Dorset Police Safer Neighbourhood Team and Dorset Safety Camera Partnership.
Johnny Stephens, Head of Fixed Penalties for the Dorset Safety Camera Partnership, said: "The experience of witnessing the horrific nature of a collision rescue situation is likely to make those who saw the demonstration think more carefully about driving. All too often the emergency services have to witness scenes like this but we hope this staged collision will help prevent real life incidents.”
Kate Huelin, Road Safety and Community Engagement Manager at DFRS said: "We hope that this experience will encourage people to drive with a better understanding and appreciation of what can happen in the event of a collision. It is hoped that increased awareness will make people think and be more aware of the consequences of their driving."
Alison Shelton, LV= Streetwise manager said: “The consequences of a simple act which distracts a driver can be devastating and it only takes a moment for your worst nightmare to happen. This was a golden opportunity for people to come along and speak frankly and openly with the emergency service teams who deal with the aftermath. It might be a staged crash – but it will be a stunningly visual reminder that just might be the one that makes all the difference.”
Lesley Hart, Road Safety Education Officer at Borough of Poole said: “This event was staged during National Road Safety Week and was an excellent opportunity for road users to see firsthand what happens when a road collision occurs. We hope it helped raise awareness about what can happen and what is involved at the scene.”
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