Holloman Hosts Street Smart

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Leah Ferrante
  • 49th Wing Public Affairs
HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M., --  To help understand the importance of driving safely and the consequences of not being careful, Greg McCarty and Vince Easevoli, presenters of Street Smart from Florida Stay Alive From Education Inc., briefed Holloman Airmen ages 26 and under, June 20.

As we get into our vehicles, the number of distractions we encounter are endless, to include cell phones, music, other passengers and drivers. Sometimes we even forget to put on a seatbelt. We think these distractions are so small that we just brush them off and continue driving. What we don't realize is how harmful a small distraction could be, and how it could easily end our life or someone else's.

S.A.F.E. presenters of Street Smart is a non-profit organization dedicated to making young adults aware of the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, texting, or emailing while driving, not wearing seat belts, and the trauma associated with these dangers. The goal of S.A.F.E. is to offer information that will allow the audience to make rational decisions concerning their safety and well being, thus reducing injuries and fatalities and giving them the opportunity to become responsible and healthy adults.

"It was a very attention grabbing program and brought the stark reality of these situations to light," said Tim Cahill, 49th Wing Ground Safety manager. "It showed how many lives can be affected by just one lapse in judgment."

McCarty and Easevoli, both Florida firefighter paramedics, gave advice on car accidents they've experienced and how they could have been prevented. With photos and video of tragic and fatal accidents of young adults, they couldn't stress enough pertinent advice to all drivers.

"I see more accidents that didn't have to be fatal from results of careless driving," said Easevoli.

During the briefing, the presenters used an Airman in a hypothetical drunk driving scenario from start to finish, explaining every step of the way what would happen if he were involved in a fatal DUI related accident. They showed medical equipment used on injuries and shared the consequences he would receive had he lived.

"You may have survived, but do you see that officer over there? He's here to arrest you for making the wrong decision to drink and drive," said Easevoli.

The briefing gave the Airmen a chance to laugh at the funny scenarios, but also gave a wake-up call on how serious the smallest distractions or wrong decisions could affect not only your life, but family, friends and strangers as well.

"The turnout was great. We had nearly every seat filled for all three presentations," said Lt. Col Richard Wageman, 49th Wing Chief of Safety. "I spoke with a few folks after the event and they relayed that although they had seen this presentation before, it was worthwhile to see it again."

"Remember, nothing is more important than your life," said Easevoli. "We need you to keep yourself safe while you keep our country safe."