Simulated crash 'confronting' for students

In a first for the region, Manea Senior College hosted a simulated car crash to better inform students about the importance of first aid and the risks of drink driving.

On Friday morning, a mock crash, caused by a driver under the influence of alcohol, happened in the school’s car park.

Ten rural medical students pretended to have serious wounds, so the Year 11 health and medical specialist students could test their first aid training.

Teacher Janene Wells said the students responded properly and demonstrated they were capable of performing in high-stress situations.

Year 11 student Kimberly Hooper said the simulation felt realistic. “It was really confronting but amazing to experience,” she said.

St John Ambulance South West training and services coordinator Annette Mateljan organised the simulation and said it was important for young people to understand the realistic pressures of administering first aid, as well as knowing how to make a triple zero phone call.

“I’m really proud of the students, who all said they learnt so much from it,” she said.

“They have a lot more confidence to use their skills in a real life situation if they had to.”

St John Ambulance WA chief executive officer Tony Ahern said the simulation was an important lesson.

“Part of it is to give the students a chance to train, but also to sell the message about the importance of first aid and putting it into perspective,” he said.

“We would like to see a lot more of it and I believe first aid should be compulsory.

“It’s about giving the students the confidence to know they can help make a huge difference and potentially save lives.”