Safe Teen Driving Event Takes Place Saturday

Several town agencies and organizations are working together to sponsor a Safe Teen Driving event Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Canton High School.

The event will feature three special vehicles that simulate dangerous situations, such as drunken driving, an out-of-control vehicle, and lack of seat-belt use.

The event will also feature parent-teen pledge contracts, copies of the latest state laws and a free hot dog, chips and soda for the first 100 attendees.

“It’s a nice little partnership with community of concern/substance abuse council, Youth Services Bureau and the Canton Police Department to participate in the safe-teen driving event,” said Police Chief Christopher Arciero.

The event is being funded through an $800 grant from the Canton Community Health Fund. 

On site will be a Skid Monster-equipped vehicle provided by the Automobile Association of America. The vehicle’s rear tires are equipped with "castering" wheels that rotate 360 degrees. The wheel device safely simulates many out-of-control driving situations in a small area that helps teach teens learn how to react and avoid dangerous situations, according to the manufacturer’s website. 

Parents and teens with a license or driving permit can use the vehicle.

The Seat Belt Convincer will be brought by the state police. It allows riders to safely experience the force of a crash. In addition, Simsbury police will bring a vehicle that simulates drunken driving. Special impairment goggles will be used as well so that teens can get a sense of the dangers if intoxicated driving.

Pat Maloy, a member of the Community of Concern/Substance abuse council said the event is open to all teens regardless of where they live.

“Our goal here is to save one kid’s life,” she said. “I’m a big believer in, you can do something or you can do nothing.”

The event takes place Saturday, April 30, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Canton High School. The school will be open for restroom access.