On Friday, April 4, Bassett High School, authorities and public safety personnel brought back a crash reenactment event not held in a few years. The simulation took place on the football field the day before the school’s prom, aiming to raise awareness about the dangers of texting while driving — an issue the school identified as a greater concern than driving under the influence (DUI).
The event was graphic in nature, as students watched a reenacted fatal car crash unfold in real time. EMTs pulled actors from the wreckage, performed life-saving procedures, and transported the injured victims by ambulance. Authorities were also on scene, further enhancing the realism of the drill, and a hearse was used to demonstrate the devastating aftermath of dangerous driving decisions.
“I’m glad we have this opportunity for our students to be prepared and be aware of distracted driving of any kind. It’s one of the things we always want to do,” said Michael Minter, principal of Bassett High School. Minter emphasized the importance of student safety, especially on a night like prom.
Dustin Elgin, training captain at Fieldale-Collinsville Rescue Squad and a Bassett alumnus, led the operation.
“I think 2010 was the last time that Bassett High School did one of these,” Elgin said. Mock disaster scenarios are commonly used to educate a wide range of people.
Elgin noted that, fortunately, DUIs are no longer the most pressing concern.
“Texting and driving is the biggest concern, so it changed up the idea a little bit to match that.” Elgin hopes to make the activity an annual educational event.
Returning to Bassett was a meaningful experience for Elgin.
It “feels great, it’s been a while since I’ve been here honestly, since I’ve graduated and such,” he said.
The cars used in the simulation were donated by Meeks Recycling and Salvage. The rescue squad completed pre-cut work on the vehicles for airbag safety before they were brought on-site.
Several agencies participated in the event, including the Bassett Rescue Squad, Bassett Fire Department, Collinsville Fire Department, Henry County Sheriff’s Office, Virginia State Police, Henry County 911 Center, and Bassett Funeral Home. AirLife One conducted a flyover during the simulation.
There are currently no plans to conduct the reenactment at Magna Vista High School. However, Elgin remains optimistic.
“Once we get this under our belt and work out the kinks from this one, there’s a good possibility we will open it up for both Bassett and Magna Vista” high schools, he said.
