NASS PARTICIPATED IN THE CRASH SIMULATOR 'TOWARDS ZERO DEATHS' CAMPAIGN

By Vivian LaMoore, Inaajimowin Editor

Students and staff at Nay Ah Shing Upper School got a hands-on lesson in traffic safety during the annual Fire Prevention and Safety Day in September, participating in the "Towards Zero Deaths" crash simulator.

A staff member from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety brought the simulator to the school, giving students a realistic demonstration of the dangers of unsafe driving. The simulator highlights how distractions behind the wheel-like texting, talking on the phone, or other forms of inattentive driving — can quickly lead to serious crashes.

The "Towards Zero Deaths" (TZD) program is Minnesota's cornerstone traffic safety initiative. By providing young drivers with this interactive experience, the program helps them understand the very real consequences of distracted or impaired driving and reinforces the importance of staying focused, keeping phones out of reach, and following safe driving practices. Purpose: To provide students with a hands-on, realistic experience of how distracted or unsafe driving behaviors can lead to crashes.

Goal: To reduce traffic-related deaths and injuries by teaching young drivers the consequences of unsafe choices in a safe, controlled environment.

Through experiences like this, students gain a deeper understanding of the importance of responsible driving, and a critical reminder for all drivers: buckle up! Always wear your seatbelt — it can save your life.