Published: April 20, 2008 11:16 pm      

Program aims to get teens to think before they drink

It’s time for kids to get smart.

Street Smart, a national program made up of a team of firefighter/paramedics, will be at local high schools Wednesday talking to students on the dangers of drinking and driving and illegal drug use.

Presentations will be held at Westmont Hilltop, Richland and Greater Johnstown schools.

The program is sponsored by Von’s United Beverage Co., the local Anheuser-Busch wholesaler.

Anheuser-Busch, along with its independent distributors, sponsor community-based programs and advertising campaigns to address responsible drinking and ways to help prevent underage drinking and drunk driving.

“Many of our employees are parents, and we’re committed to helping our young people stay safe,” said Connie Thompson, Von’s vice president. “We are always looking for quality speakers because in our industry we need to promote ways to keep everyone safe.”

Street Smart is presented by members of Stay Alive From Education (SAFE), a nonprofit organization created by firefighter and paramedics from Miami. The crew engages students rather than lecturing or preaching.

Using factual information, actual medical equipment and demonstrations involving students, the team provides a real-life look at the consequences of irresponsible actions.

“It’s pretty graphic,” Thompson said.

Thompson said she recently saw a Street Smart presentation in Hollidaysburg and following the talk some teen girls left school and were heard saying they would wear their seat belts because of what they just saw.

“(Then) they were in an accident and said seeing Street Smart saved their lives, so this is a really great program,” she said. “The paramedics’ real-life stories have a powerful, long-lasting impact that we hope will encourage students to be responsible about the choices they make.”