REMSA INTRODUCES LIFE AND DEATH SCENERIO TO LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL

March 12, 2004 -- The Regional Emergency Medical Service Authority (REMSA) will participate in Every 15 Minutes, a community educational program about driving under the influence, on March 10 from 9 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. at Reno High School. The program title is in reference to the fact that every 15 minutes, someone dies as the result of an alcohol-related collision. The event marks the first time the national program is being offered in northern Nevada.

The Every 15 Minutes program, involving all students at Reno High School, includes a simulated, two car accident with Reno High School students as the drivers and passengers, medical treatment provided by REMSA, transportation of the “victims” to Washoe Medical Center by Care Flight helicopter units, the aftermath of student "deaths" resulting from the simulated accident including a mock funeral, reaction and impact of the “deaths” from families and friends, and the simulated arrest, prosecution and sentencing of the "intoxicated" driver.

The goal of Every 15 Minutes is to instill in teenagers the potentially deadly and far-reaching consequences of driving under the influence and to persuade them to make mature decisions when lives are at stake.

REMSA has partnered with the following organization in participating in this emotionally charged program:

For additional information about the national "Every 15 Minutes" program, including statistically significant results relative to student participation in the program, please visit www.every15minutes.com, or call Eric Guevin, Director of Community Relations for REMSA, at 775.686.5700.

450 Edison Way Reno, Nevada 89502 (775)858-5700 Fax (775)858-5720