Disaster struck at a technical school in DuPage County today, but the multiple car crashes were by design, creating a realistic drill for EMT and fire science students.
It all unfolded In the parking lot at the Technical Center of DuPage. Called an "extrication drill," it gave students an opportunity to test their skills and use equipment like the Jaws of Life.
People trapped by twisted metal were freed and the injured accident victims were carefully placed on stretchers and taken away by EMT’s in training.
Even cosmetology students gained experience. Realistic-looking accident victims were made up by the cosmetology department. There were plenty of real-life emergency personnel on standby to offer feedback.
FOX 32 talked to a Wood Dale firefighter who graduated from the program several years ago.
"A lot of kids in college still don’t know what they want to do, " said graduate Mike Fennell.