Halton Regional Police Service has partnered with the Halton District School Board and the Halton Catholic District School Board to drive home an important message to students – make safe driving decisions when celebrating prom this year.

Earlier this month, police and Board staff launched 2011 Safe Prom Launch at Robert Bateman High School. Its aim was to bring awareness to students to not drive while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs. To impress upon students the seriousness of poor driving decisions, police towed to the high school a wrecked car that had been involved in a drinking-and-driving collision.  

Every year, senior students throughout the region celebrate prom season. While this is generally a happy occasion, it also comes with inherent risk due to drug and/or alcohol use and impaired driving, say police. The car wreck, located on the front lawn of the school site, represented the “tragic consequences of impaired driving,” according to police. There were six fatal motor collisions in 2010 involving young people between the ages of 17-25, said Deputy Chief Bob Percy.

“You have a responsibility to yourself, your friends and your family to be safe,” he said. “Have fun, enjoy your prom and drive safe.”

During the launch, Robert Bateman High School Principal Regan Heffernan urged students “to do the right thing” and make smart driving decisions when celebrating prom night.

Numerous students also gathered for an assembly inside the school. Those who volunteered were fitted with special glasses to simulate impaired driving by trying to walk a straight line.

Grade 12 student Maggie Hill said everyone needs to be aware of the consequences of driving while under the influence.

“I really hope students learn drinking and driving is not okay,” she says, adding students should arrange for a safe way home on prom night by renting a limousine, or calling a taxi or parents.

The Safe Prom campaign will also involve messaging within schools including public service announcements and posters, plus a raffle for $500 towards a limo for prom or school team/activity.

To view Halton police's Prom Tips For Students, click here.