For the Reporter
The Kent Fire Department Regional Fire Authority invites the public to observe a Gift of Life presentation at 12:15 p.m. Tuesday at Kentwood High School, 25800 164 Ave. SE, Covington.
The Gift of Life is an annual demonstration at local high schools designed to increase teenage awareness of the dangers of drinking and driving. It involves a simulated car crash of teenagers who have just left a high school graduation party where alcohol was available. Student actors play the parts of the victims and witnesses.
In order to increase the realism of the presentation, the Covington Police Department, King County Medic One, and Tri-med Ambulance will also participate.
The simulation is conducted similarly to an actual crash scene with firefighters performing an extrication of victims and treatment of the injured. One of the teens, who plays the part of the drunk driver, will be “arrested” following a field sobriety test conducted by a Covington Police officer.
The program is graphic and is intended to show teens the reality of a serious crash and what takes place.
The crash simulation is followed by a school assembly where guest speakers discuss drinking and driving and the consequences of making poor decisions. This year’s speakers will include a judge, chaplain and a father who lost a teenage daughter to a drunk driver.
The Gift of Life is scheduled each spring to coincide with proms and graduation. It also falls during what is known as the 100 Deadliest Days. The 100 days between Memorial and Labor Days will see more teen deaths from vehicle crashes than any other time of the year.
The Kent Fire Department RFA has been conducting the Gift of Life program for more than 20 years as it works to help keep teens and the community safe.
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