Road Safety Week |24 November 2023
Accident simulation sensitises the public on road safety
The Road Safety Advisory Committee, along with the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Health, the Police and the Seychelles Fire and Rescue Services Agency (SFRSA), yesterday hosted an exhibition and accident simulation to sensitise the public on road safety, specifically in relation to speed.
The exhibition held at the Victoria House car park and the accident simulation which took place at the Victoria Gymnasium car park were part of activities for Road Safety Week under the theme, ‘Let’s talk about speed’. The simulation exercise showed how the emergency service responds to a road traffic accident while the exhibition, mounted by various stakeholders, showcased services that respond to road traffic accidents and products to mitigate dangers after a road accident, such as fires.
In the simulation exercise, those present were able to witness how the road emergency responders namely the police, the SFRSA and the Ministry of Health, interact and coordinate their emergency response in order to save lives. Using damaged cars, the scenario involved two vehicles colliding at the car park following high speeding by one of them. The first emergency respondent on the scene was the police followed by the SFRSA and the health services. There were two ambulances coming from the Seychelles Hospital and the Anse Royale Hospital to showcase collaboration and quick response among emergency services.
Among the four victims, three survived while one died. The SFRSA had to cut through the heavily damaged vehicle to remove the driver. The victims in the simulation were two students from the Beau Vallon secondary school and two dummies. Two other students from the same school played the role of family members at the scene. When talking to the media, all four students advised drivers to refrain from speeding while driving.
“I have never experienced such a scenario, so for me it was exciting to play the role even though in real life I believe it would be something different. I want to tell all those at the wheel to observe the speed limit in place and to refrain from speeding because they are not the only road users,” said Vince Julienne who was acting as a passenger.
“Speeding can cause death. So, drivers must always take note of their families who are waiting for them back home,” said Valerie Bijoux who was playing the role of the victim’s family.
Among those present to witness the simulation were the Minister for Transport, Anthony Derjacques; the principal secretary for transport, Patrick Andre; the World Health Organisation (WHO) representative for Seychelles, Dr Rex Mpazanje; and deputy Commissioner of Police, Francis Songoire.
Addressing the gathering before the launch of the simulation exercise and the exhibition, Minister Derjacques called on all road users to take their responsibility and to be safe and sound while on the road.
He called on all drivers not to consume alcohol, illegal substances or any types of medications that may affect their visions and ability to think while driving, especially during the upcoming festive season.
“This year we are doing well with only eight fatalities compared to eighteen fatalities last year, and I would like that we get to finish this year with the only eight fatalities recorded. So I want all of us to drive safely. To the young drivers make sure of what you are doing whenever you are handling a vehicle,” Minister Derjacques said.
This was echoed by Sergeant Julinio Nourrice from the police public relations and corporate image unit who said he hopes drivers hear the safety message and do take their responsibility to protect themselves, their passengers and other road users.
The accompanying photos show some highlights of the accident simulation and exhibition yesterday to mark Road Safety Week.
Text & photos by Patrick Joubert
