Save a Life Tour visits Eglin

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Anthony Jennings
  • 96th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Team Eglin was introduced to the nationwide "Save a Life Tour," the latest way of educating Airmen on the effects of driving under the influence, Oct. 24 in the Eglin Fitness Center. 

The day-long event gave approximately 250 Airmen from across the base the chance to experience the effects of drinking and driving first hand on a drunk driver simulator. 

The drunk driver software gave those present at the event the experience of what it would be like to sit in the driver seat after consuming alcohol by simulating how it affects reaction times, motor skills and even tunnel vision. Since people metabolizes alcohol at different rates, simulator features 57 sensors in the driver seating area to gauge the driver's height and weight, providing the most state-of-the-art, realistic drunk driving experience. 

The overwhelming response to the safety event from Team Eglin was extremely positive. 

"Several servicemembers affirmed that the event was a real eye opener to the consequences of the irresponsible use of alcohol," said Mr. Robert Fusco, Air Armament Center Simulation Exercise Group. 

Just like a real-world vehicle, the driver must start the car and put the simulator into the proper gear before beginning to drive. As the experience advances, the vehicle reacts with a slight time delay to further reflect the effects of intoxication. 

To further drive home the possible outcomes of drinking and driving, Brian Beldyga, a Save a Life Tour instructor, provided those who attended a genuine and heartfelt account of how his wife was killed by a driver who was under the influence. 

"The tour was intended to remind people to be a good friend and not let friends drive drunk, to save a life," said Mr. Beldyga. 

"Bringing the tour to Eglin provided not only the opportunity to deglamourize the irresponsible use of alcohol, but also the chance for Airmen to reflect on the consequences of their own actions," said Tommy Salter, Chief of Ground Safety. 
"Everybody needs to set the right example." 

To learn more about the Save a Life Tour or more facts on drinking and driving, go to www.savealifetour.net