FIREFIGHTERS held a road traffic collision demonstration for teenagers as part of an initiative to help make them aware of the dangers associated with being a new driver.

In conjunction with North Hertfordshire College, firefighters from White Watch in Stevenage are running a scheme designed to educate 16 and 17 year olds about the risks which come with being a new driver.

According to crew commander of White Watch Stevenage, Tom Morey, road crashes are the biggest killers of people aged 18 to 24.

The event included a presentation on the dangers of driving while under the influence of drink or drugs, speeding, not using seatbelts, and using a mobile phone while driving.

Some of the teenagers took part in the road traffic collision demonstration, playing the role of casualties in a car. Firefighters used cutting equipment to demonstrate the techniques used to free people who are trapped following a crash.

The demonstration was followed by a question and answer session.

Mr Morey said: “This partnership with North Hertfordshire College has enabled us to engage with young people who are about to start driving cars and motorbikes.

“Any information that we can impart on these young drivers to make them safer is time very well spent.”