ROCK SPRINGS — At the Sweetwater County Events Complex this morning, teens got busted at a party, stood before a judge in court, and were put in jail by Sheriff’s deputies–all as a simulation.
Students learned about the consequences of irresponsible partying at the Life R U Ready? Project this week. The project is a “life-simulation” health fair for teens and parents, where educators hope to bring life to what can happen at and after a party.
The fair included a station with the Wyoming Highway Patrol and Sweetwater Medics where students could see a simulated accident, wear “drunk goggles,” and ride in the “Seat Belt Convincer”–a car-like contraption that halts to a sudden stop and deploys an airbag.
Randomly assigned consequences of partying included needing medical attention at the Emergency Room, going to a Sexually Transmitted Infection Clinic, getting pregnant, developing a habit of substance abuse, or being taken to the mortuary because he or she died.
Life R U Ready? Project Coordinator Shelley Richno said the event started because Sweetwater County was ranking high in teen participation of risky behaviors. “We wanted to find a way to make consequences seem real,” said Richno.
Seventh and tenth graders from around the county are participating in the program this week.
