HOSA had put out a car that looked to be totaled in front of DHS. This car gains attention from students, and with all the attention, it teaches students about what can happen if they do not practice safe driving.
Emma Ebner, who is a senior, was asked the question, How did you think the safe driving demonstration would impact students at DHS?
She answered, “The Distracted Driving event will raise awareness to the students and even the staff members at DHS as they see the effects of what can happen when you drive distracted on your phone, under the influence, or just simply not paying attention. People’s lives are seriously affected by car crashes. By simulating one with fellow students as victims and bystanders, it can really show how just a small thing like distracted driving or impaired can result in a catastrophic event. Students and staff realize their loved ones can be harmed by driving irresponsibly, and that’s what we wanted to showcase.”
The demonstration helps show the impact and seriousness of events that could occur when people do not practice safe driving and in time to show students before prom had taken place.
Ebner was then asked why the demonstration happened. She answered with, “The distracted driving event originally created by HOSA officers last school year in joint with admin staff to prevent students from driving distracted or impaired during prom. Since there are parties after prom and kids will do activities before, it was really important to us to bring awareness to the results of your actions. We displayed a simulated car crash with victims, friends, and parents because we want to show that everyone can be affected by your decision to drive under the influence or distracted at prom. Really we just want everyone to stay safe.”
The last question Ebner was asked was: What would you say to someone interested in joining HOSA?
Ebner shares, “I would say definitely join! I’ve made so many friends, memories, and connections with health professionals who all are a huge part in my life. My favorite high school memories have been made through HOSA events. Some of my closest friends I’ve met through HOSA, not just in Durango. HOSA is an incredible chance to get hands-on experience that you won’t get anywhere else, be part of super cool events like our distracted driving event, and meet really cool people who save lives and are an important part in healthcare in our community and the world. Overall, it’s super fun and you won’t regret it.”
HOSA is a great opportunity for students who are interested in the medical field in the future. It offers lots of great hands-on projects and demonstrations, just like the car crash.
Emma Ebner shows how the demonstration was to help teach students and show what could happen if they were not driving safely. The demonstration was timed to be around prom with after parties for students.
