'Vision van' launched by Beds Fire and Rescue to warn of dangers of distracted driving
The van invites the community to partake in a virtual reality accident simulator
A road safety accident prevention initiative has been launched by Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service to educate the public around the dangers of distractions when driving.
The initiative aims at particularly targeting younger drivers or drivers-to-be, aged 17 to 25, who are generally more prone to illegally using mobile phones behind the wheel.
The use of a virtual reality van to engage with this demographic has proved to be an innovative approach to educating them about the dangers of road traffic collisions and promoting safer driving behaviours.
Steve Fowler, Station Commander at Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue, said: "So this idea has actually come from Leicestershire Fire Rescue service."
"They produced the virtual reality film that we use and they produced a similar vehicle that we've identified as a good asset and that we wanted to try and replicate ourselves."
The virtual reality experience allows individuals to immerse themselves in a simulated environment where they can witness the consequences of distracted driving, such as using mobile phones or succumbing to peer pressure.
By providing a hands-on experience, the hope is to make a lasting impact on participants and encourage them to think more critically about their actions on the road.
Mr Fowler said: "The idea is that with it being virtual reality, that not only is it something you've listened to, but it will form part of an experience that you will be able to look back on and make you think about possible changes in behaviour and how to drive on the roads."
The flexibility of the van allows the Fire and Rescue Service to bring their educational efforts directly to the community, whether it be visiting colleges, sixth forms, or other public events.
This proactive approach demonstrates their commitment to engaging with the public and promoting road safety awareness.
Mr Fowler said: "We love to engage our community as a Fire and Rescue service and sometimes it's better for us to go out and meet them."
"The, the resource, the films, they are a talking point for us to strike that conversation up and hopefully break down some of those barriers that some people may have talking to Fire and Rescue Service, and talking to adults."
The initiative is aimed at not only educating individuals about the risks associated with irresponsible driving but also foster open communication between young people and emergency services, ultimately working towards creating safer roads for everyone.