Mock crash drives home dangers of distracted driving

On April 9th, 2025 Logan County EMS staged a mock crash event. The goal: to give local students a powerful, real-life perspective on the dangers of impaired and distracted driving.

The mock crash unfolded outside Oakley High School where students were transformed into "victims" of a simulated roll over crash. The scene was made to look as realistic as possible, complete with a damaged vehicle, moulage makeup, and a dramatic emergency response.

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It began with a 911 call to local dispatch saying the teens had just crashed and needed help. First responders arrived just as they would at an actual crash. EMS personnel triaged and treated the "injured", firefighters used extrication tools to remove trapped victims, law enforcement managed the scene and notified parents of their deceased son, and dispatch coordinated the response. Kansas Highway Patrol officers provided perspective on crash investigations and the real-life consequences that follow.

Once the patients were assessed and placed in the back of the ambulance, they were transported to a make-shift emergency room that had been set up in the high school entry way and one critically injured patient was air lifted to a critical care hospital by EagleMed. She was only flown to the Oakley airport but we wanted this scene to be as real as possible.

By bringing together multiple agencies and community partners, the exercise showed students the full scope of what happens in the aftermath of a serious crash. Beyond the flashing lights and sirens, it was sobering reminder of how quickly a night of celebration can turn into tragedy.

All agencies involved: Logan County EMS, Logan County Fire, Logan County Sheriff's Office, Logan County Police Department, Logan County Dispatch, Kansas Highway Patrol, EagleMed, Logan County Hospital with help from Colby Community College nursing students, Midwest Energy, Baalman's Mortuary, Logan County Emergency Management, Sheridan County EMS, and S&M Towing & Repair.

It was emphasized that the purpose of the mock crash wasn't to scare students, but to encourage them to make safe choices behind the wheel. Whether it's choosing a sober driver, wearing a seatbelt, or resisting the urge to text, every decision can make a difference.

Aside from the crash, Logan County Law Enforcement presented a visual impairment activity for the freshmen and sophomore classes. The event was to demonstrate what happens when you are visually impaired under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The students got to wear goggles that mimicked the feeling of being under the influence and try to drive a golf course around cones or play a game of cornhole.

Logan County EMS extends gratitude to all the agencies, businesses, and volunteers who helped make this event impactful. Most of all, we thank the students who participated with honesty and courage, helping deliver a message that could save lives.

• KHP Trooper Tod's Facebook Post can be read here

• NWKS Radio Blog Post can be read here