Mike Kirkeby Comments on Demonstration's Ability to Stop Teen DUI Deaths

PHILADELPHIA, PA, June 03, 2013 (Press-News.org) Mike Kirkeby, who owns Kirkeby Limousine, is issuing comment on a new article that details a school's efforts to curb the rates of teen drunk driving and DUI-related death. The staff at Burlington-Edison High School teamed up with the troopers from the Washington State Patrol in order to put together a mock DUI crash scene at the school. The demonstration even included the use of a medical airlift helicopter, which landed on the football field, and paramedics who used the "jaws of life" to extract a student actor from the wreckage. In the demonstration, two cars had collided, causing significant damage.

The realistic demonstration was put into place a decade ago, and the area has not seen a single DUI-related crash throughout prom and graduation season since. In addition to the effectiveness of the program, troopers believe that high profile patrols and parental involvement has also helped to drastically reduce the rates of drunk driving fatalities in the area.

Professional driver Mike Kirkeby frequently transports students to and from proms and other dances. He believes in the importance of this demonstration stating, "While it's my job to get them to and from prom safely, from there they have to keep themselves safe. It's important that they know how to locate a sober ride home, and pass up a ride with someone who has spent time drinking that night. Parents must really take an active role during prom night, and reinforce the message that the student can call at any hour in the event that they should suddenly require a sober ride home."

Students seemed to be affected by the demonstration. Ashleigh Bombatch wiped away a tear as she stated, "Actually seeing your friend having a sheet put over her, it's like you're actually there. This could actually happen. That's what's so scary."

Carly Tolf is a student who has seen the impact of DUI firsthand. She explains that the memory of a friend who was killed by a drunk driver stays with her, especially as she prepares for events like prom, where drunk driving rates rise.

Trooper Mark Francis explains that the drill aims to be as realistic as possible, while sparing the troopers the agony of having to tell parents that their son or daughter will not be returning from their prom night outing.

Kirkeby comments on the effectiveness of the demonstration stating, "It's one thing for kids to read about the impact of DUI in textbooks, however to put it in real terms where it's right in front of them is a powerful tool. Though it may be disturbing to look at a simulated crash scene, it seems that the images have had a powerful impact on student's decisions regarding drunk driving." Mike Kirkeby explains that parents must have an ongoing conversation with their kids regarding the dangers of drunk driving.

ABOUT:

Mike Kirkeby is the owner of Kirkeby Limousine, a company that provides professional driving services to a diverse group of clients. Mike and his team of licensed, insured drivers aim to provide comfortable, clean rides. They serve prom goers, wedding parties, business professionals looking to get to and from conferences, and those heading to the airport. The vehicles are always kept in pristine condition, making each travel experience a pleasant one.