A first hand look at the devastating effects of drinking and driving was the lesson learned by grade nine students from Highwood High School Wednesday, April 26.

First responders from around High River and Southern Alberta put on a "mock crash" for the students.

High River RCMP Constable, Jill Mills, says part of the exercise was to show the kids just how fast a crash can happen.

"You think you can just take a moment to change the music on the radio, or look down and pick something up off the floor, or look at your phone very quickly. Things change in a second."

Mills says graphic examples of how bad a crash can be are vital learning tools for students on the brink of getting behind the wheel for the first time.

EMS Operations Supervisor Stu Bridle says showing kids these types of scenarios can save their lives.

EMS Operations Supervisor Stu Bridle told stories of real life crashes he's dealt with over the years during the mock crash demonstration.

"Anytime that we can prevent any type of accident, or potential accident by creating awareness, and the impacts that this has is something that's very important."

Bridle, who was very graphic in his descriptions of crash scenes and their consequences says it's part of getting the message through about drinking and distracted driving.

The "victim" was 14 year old Maddie Hopf, who says it was an effective demonstration.

"I think it is because lots of us are going to be getting our learner's license, and we should be prepared. And not drink and drive, but be prepared for anything."

First responders answered students questions after the demonstration, before heading for more classroom instruction on the dangers of drinking and distracted driving.