Motorists of the future have enjoyed important lessons in how to stay safe when they eventually pass their driving tests.
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Road Safety Unit and South Wales Fire and Rescue Service joined forces to host Megadrive at the Safety Zone in Treforest.
Students from Pontypridd College and Pontypridd High attended the important event to pick up safety tips, important lessons – and a reality check – before they take to the roads as drivers.
The first session was with approved driving instructors Drivin’, who gave the teenagers an introduction to a vehicle, its controls and stopping and starting.
Trading Standards officers from the Council then gave important information on buying a second-hand car before the teenagers learned about basic vehicle maintenance.
One of the important messages is about drink driving, so the delegates endured a driving assimilator wearing “beer goggles” which give the impression you are under the influence of alcohol – and enable a sobering experience of just how capable you are when you have had a few drinks.
South Wales Fire and Rescue also attended the day with a Fire Engine and Road Traffic Collision vehicle which had the cutting equipment used when there has been an accident.
Cllr Andrew Morgan, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Road Safety, said: “Megadrive is an important lesson that our Road Safety Unit and their partners deliver regularly to ensure motorists of the future have the information they need.
“It is a fascinating day which allows them hands-on experience with driving, but also gives vital information on how to buy a car safely and stay safe when you are behind the wheel.
“Hundreds of teenagers have already benefited from Megadrive and even more are set to as this work continues.”
