‘5 in 5’ A new virtual reality young driver education film
Over 10 years ago Leicestershire FRS was pioneering production of the first road safety virtual reality film. The film showed four young people involved in a fatal crash and gave the viewer an immersive experience of the aftermath of the accident.
The film has been widely used across the road safety sector but with research and guidance changing around young driver education, a new intervention was needed.
A joint project with Bedfordshire Fire & Rescue Service and First Car Media presents a new snappy, ‘5 risks in 5 minutes’ film, arming young drivers with the facts and coping strategies to become safer drivers.
Kate Garrigan, Watch Manager, Leicestershire Fire & Rescue Service
Kate Garrigan is a Watch Manager in the Community Safety Department and has been the road safety lead for Leicestershire Fire & Rescue Service for the last 3.5 years.
Leicestershire FRS has been using VR to assist in road safety education for many years and were the first to introduce their fully immersive ‘Hazard Express’ - virtual insanity vehicle.
The van features six seats on moveable platforms that are synced with the VR films to give viewers an unforgettable experience.
Matt Hyland, Station Manager, Bedfordshire Fire & Rescue Service
Matt Hyland is a Station Manager in the Bedsfire Prevention Team with responsibility for Roads, Water and Youth Development.
Bedsfire have been operating Vision, our VR van, for over a year and have found it a great tool in getting young people to engage with us.
The 5 in 5 project has been a great opportunity to collaborate with Leicestershire FRS and develop new content for our engagement with young drivers going forward.