Vincennes University hosted a Safe Prom mock exercise on campus Thursday.
The program is designed for high school juniors ahead of prom season. It focuses on the risks of distracted driving, alcohol and drug use, and not wearing a seat belt, and how those decisions can lead to serious consequences.
First responders from across Vincennes and Knox County participated, simulating a real emergency response. A StatFlight air ambulance also landed in the track and field area as part of the exercise.
About 350 students from North Knox, South Knox, Lincoln, and Rivet took part.
Amber Dinkens, Healthcare Academy Coordinator at Good Samaritan Hospital commented that the exercise is a lot for students to take in. “They were very attentive”, Dinkens said. “When they’re engaged, they’re processing that information, and it may stay with them and influence decisions they make later.”
This was the first time in about 15 years Knox County has hosted an event like this.
