MCFRS News Release

Every 15 Minutes Program Comes to Northwest High School; Fire and Police Department Partner on Important Safety Message

Montgomery County, MD- - On Thursday, April 24th, juniors and seniors at Northwest High School will feel the drama of a simulated alcohol-involved auto accident. The Every 15 Minutes Program offers real-life experience without the real-life risks. This powerful program challenges students to think about drinking, distractions, driving, personal safety and the responsibility of making mature decisions when lives are involved.

A simulated traffic collision will be staged in front of the school and Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFRS) emergency crews will treat “injured” student participants along with Police Department officers and an accident reconstruction team. These students will experience firsthand what it is like to be involved in a tragic, alcohol-related collision. The injured students will be extricated from the wreckage by MCFRS personnel. Montgomery County Police officers will investigate, arrest and book the student "drunk driver."  There will be an evening dinner retreat at a local restaurant held on Thursday, April 24th at 6:00 p.m. as well as an assembly at Northwest High School on Friday, April 25th at 7:35 a.m.  Both will include powerful videos and guest speakers including Montgomery County Police Captain Tom Didone who tragically lost his son Ryan in a car accident. 

The good news is with more education and awareness programs such as “Every 15 Minutes,” the 15-minute interval is increasing; however, the numbers are still too high. Will this program successfully impact the students at Northwest High? Only time will tell however, if just one student makes a good decision not to be distracted while driving, not to drink and drive and not to get into a car with someone who has, then the answer is yes.

Media are invited to this event. Northwest High School is located at 13501 Richter Farm Road, Germantown, Maryland. The accident reenactment will begin at 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. For a complete schedule of events, call 240-777-2463.

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