A large crowd of students looked on as emergency crews rushed to help four "seriously injured" teenagers trapped in a car after a crash at John Paul College yesterday.
The Jaws of Life were used to cut through the damaged vehicle as police, New Zealand Fire Service and St John Ambulance staff tried to save the youths during a dramatic rescue exercise in the school grounds. The demonstration, organised by Students Against Dangerous Driving, was held to highlight safer driving by young people.
Organiser Ashleigh Williams said the 30-minute exercise was beneficial to those watching. "We are really happy with the response we got from the school," the Year 13 student said. "It was a great success and showed students what happens in an accident caused by driving over the speed limit."
Rotorua Fire Service senior station officer Jim Prescott said accidents happened at the least expected times. "There is no rhyme or reason, we attend accidents at 7 in the morning on fine days, and 11 at night when the rain is pouring down."