Corporal James Bass uses a rollover simulator
to show third graders why they should buckle up in the car.

Once again, FHP participated in Panhandle Safety Day, showing eager children why it's important to wear their seat belts every time they get in the car. The popular safety event, held at Chipola College in Marianna, is sponsored by the Panhandle Area Drug & Alcohol Abuse Prevention Coalition. Approximately 1,200 third graders from Calhoun, Holmes and Jackson Counties checked out the many colorful safety displays set up by a variety of community agencies.

Lt. Steve Preston and Corporal James Bass were a big hit at the event, using one of FHP's rollover simulators to demonstrate the importance of buckling up in a vehicle. The rotating car and flailing unrestrained dummies grabbed the children's attention while delivering an important visual safety message--look what happens when you don’t wear your seat belt--yikes!

After the safety demonstrations, the children enjoyed a nice lunch and participated in a variety of interactive activities designed to stress the importance of staying safe. Members of the participating agencies had a good time watching the children as they had fun learning about safety.