Operation Carmageddon To Demonstrate Risks Of Careless Driving In Chatham

Operation Carmageddon will demonstrate the consequences of careless driving

"Reckless driving: cut it out before we have to cut you out," is the stark message from firefighters who will be demonstrating their role in the aftermath of a serious car crash with a special demonstration in Chatham High Street on Thursday, 17 December.

Crews from Chatham and Medway fire stations will rescue a mock casualty from car wreckage alongside staff from Kent Police and the Kent Air Ambulance Trust.

Entitled "Operation Carmageddon", the aim of the event is to show young drivers the consequences of careless or reckless driving.

Medway Fire Station Manager Jim Ramsden said: "Our firefighters are regularly called out to terrible scenes where they have to cut young drivers and their passengers free from wrecked cars. We warn motorists about the destruction and possibly devastating effects of poor driving but we're still attending far more car crashes than house fires so now we're showing them those consequences by taking this shocking demonstration and its messages, to places where young people spend the evening."

Kent Fire and Rescue Service's Community Safety officers will be on hand to answer any questions along with the Medway Drugs and Alcohol Action Team.

"Reckless driving: cut it out before we have to cut you out," is the stark message from firefighters

PC Andy Ledger, Roads Policing Officer at Medway police station said: "It's important for drivers of all ages to understand the reality of what can happen if they are involved in an accident. They can shatter lives and all of the emergency services want motorists to think carefully about their actions behind the wheel. Taking a risk whilst driving just isn't worth it and we hope that those attending listen to our advice.

"This is a time of year for people to enjoy themselves, but we want them to do so responsibly. Drivers need to think if it is even worth taking the risk of having just one drink before getting behind the wheel."

Rob Wilkinson, Clinical Manager for Kent Air Ambulance said: "We have worked in partnership with the other emergency services at events such as this many times. They are very valuable in highlighting the dangers of driving irresponsibly, something that sadly as an Air Ambulance service we see all too often."