Opinion: STOP-DWI program applauds everyone involved in Mock DWI crash

To the Editor:

On behalf of St. Lawrence County STOP-DWI Program, Principal George Scoville-Upham, and Fireman Bradley Carr, we would like to send a big thank you to all those involved in the execution of the Mock DWI crash held at Lisbon Central School on May 18, 2023.

The mock crash uses real crashed donated vehicles and set up at the Lisbon Central School with actors in this scenario. These dramatic demonstrations like mock crashes educate teens about the severe consequences of substance impaired driving along with the harsh realities of a car crash.

The objective of this program was to illustrate the possible consequences when people choose to drive impaired. This simulation highlighted the fire, rescue, and emergency medical system response to rescue efforts in real-time. As well as police performing field sobriety testing and arrest procedures on the impaired driver. We were also aided by the local coroner, funeral home, law enforcement, emergency services and LifeNet of Watertown for their assistance.

We would like to thank the following volunteers, participants and organizations for their hard work and dedication to this program: Lisbon Volunteer Fire/Rescue Department including Bradley Carr, Chief, Cory Kroeger, First Assistant Chief Jayson Smith, and Second Assistant Chief Adam Duvall; Heuvelton Volunteer Fire/Rescue Department; Ken Gardener with Ogdensburg Rescue Squad members; Angela Martin and Sharon Murray for the make-up; Wayne’s Gas and Service for donating the vehicles; Matt Denner and Jackie Brown- St. Lawrence County Emergency Services; St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Deputies Nathan Albanese and Seth Carr; NYSP Trooper Josh Rogers; Coroner Jamie Sienkiewycz; Fox-Murray Funeral Home; LifeNet of Watertown; Lisbon Town Highway Department; Lisbon Central Administration including Pat Farrand, George Scovill-Upham, guidance counselors, David Flight-IT/sound system, and Lisbon Custodial Staff for their support and dedication to carrying out this program.

We would also like to acknowledge and thank our wonderful student actors: Caleigh Smith, Olivia Lawton, Isaiah White, Emma Berg, Coby Mills, and Carol Smith who played the role of a hysterical parent.

STOP-DWI Coordinator Michele James, Emergency Services Director Matt Denner, Trooper Rogers, Deputies Albanese and Carr spoke to the students about impaired driving as well as the impact these crashes have on families and friends. They reminded the students about making proper choices and paying attention when behind the wheel to keep our roadways safe in St. Lawrence County.

When behind the wheel of a vehicle, each driver must focus on safe driving behaviors. Impairment starts with the first drink or drug. Designate a sober driver to get home safely. Please make memories and not memorials.

Michele James
St. Lawrence County STOP-DWI Program