Pocono News Section

Students Learn Dangers of Driving Drunk

Students Learn Dangers of Driving Drunk - Wednesday, September 10, 2008 at 5:16PM EST

Reported by: Jeremy Deebel
Wednesday, Sep 10, 2008 @ 05:16pm EST
Williamsport, Lycoming County-

Students got a real life look at the dangers of drunk driving this afternoon at a college in Lycoming County. It's all part of Alcohol Awareness Week at Penn College.

Although the students were completely sober, trying to drive a golf cart while wearing intoxication goggles simulated the experience of being drunk.

Matthew Witmer, of Williamsport, said, "It makes you feel horrible when you're driving. You're very impaired. When you're looking down, things are in the wrong spot."

As the students quickly learned, even walking while under the influence presents quite a challenge. They overwhelming failed their field sobriety tests.

Health and fitness specialist Kristi Hammaker explained, "Ultimately, it allows a sober person to experience what it's like to be intoxicated but still understand everything that's going on."

Several exhibits were also set up warning students against the bad decisions many make while under the influence.

Amanda Crone, of Bloomsburg, said, "I think it's a really good idea because it helps us to be informed about how many drunk driving incidents are going on."

Students say the hands-on experience here is the most effective method they've seen, for teaching the dangers of drunk driving. That's exactly the reaction the organizers of the program were hoping for.

Jen Siegfried, of Allentown, noted, "You don't just have to sit there and listen to someone lecture, you get to actually do it and see what it's like with the drunk goggles on."

And while the goggles allowed students to enjoy a few laughs at the expense of their classmates, it seems the message is getting through.

Mike Scatena, of Wilkes-Barre, explained, "Not to drive drunk, pretty much. Definitely that I can't stand on one foot while I'm drunk.”

Officials hope the DUI program will encourage accountability throughout the campus community.

This was just the first of several awareness weeks the college has lined up throughout the year. Future programs will cover eating disorders, depression, and sexual responsibility, among other topics.