S.A.F.E.

The driver of this car, a senior airman assigned to Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., crashed while heading back to his base. He credits seatbelts and a child safety seat with saving the occupants from serious injury. The 10th Air Base Wing here will host a driving safety forum Nov. 20 at the Community Center Theatre for Academy Airmen.l(Courtesy photo)

Be S.A.F.E.: Academy preps for safety driving forum

Published Nov. 7, 2014
By Amber Baillie
U.S. Air Force Academy Public Affairs

U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- There will be two Stay Alive Forum Education presentations Nov. 20 at the Community Center Theater to inform Academy Airmen on the dangers of driving under the influence and not wearing a seatbelt.

The "Street Smart" program presentation, scheduled at 8 a.m. and 2 p.m., will feature first responders sharing on-scene experiences, working to save the lives of those who have made poor choices behind the wheel.

State-certified paramedics will present photos and descriptions of real-life trauma to show Airmen the consequences of distracted driving, drinking or drug use behind the wheel, and the non-compliance of seat belts.

The event will also feature a demonstration on what it's like to try and save a life from a victim's perspective. Responders will load a victim on a backboard and simulate an IV line.

According to S.A.F.E., the leading cause of death and injury among young adults in the U.S. is trauma caused by traffic crashes.

The Florida-based nonprofit was created in 1988 by firefighter and paramedics dedicated to reducing injuries and fatalities. They continue to reach out to schools across the country.