Two weeks after a mock train and car collision, officials gathered at Holy Trinity Catholic High School in Bradford to debrief with students.
The simulated tragedy on Apr. 25 featured a distracted driver who was texting and did not see a GO train coming.
The fake collision left a teenager dead and sent two people to hospital after firefighters used the Jaws of Life to free them.
'Exercise Fatal Distractions' was organized by emergency officials to mark Rail Safety Week and drive home the dangers of distracted driving.
"I usually, in the past, texted and drove and for me the biggest reality check was when they (firefighters) cut off the roof," said 'victim' role-player and teacher Denny DeOliveira, who was the 'distracted driver' trapped behind the wheel.
"I've sometimes taken that chance with my kids. So for me it was a big wake up call," he said.
It was the first time officials involved a local high school in the training exercise.
Students were brought to the scene to witness the aftermath of the crash and the emergency response.
At the Tuesday assembly, students watched a video of the exercise and were debriefed by officials who participated.
There were over 100 people involved in the exercise, including representatives from Transport Canada, Metrolinx, South Simcoe Police, Bradford West Gwillimbury Fire and County of Simcoe Paramedics.
Exercise Fatal Distractions attracted a lot of attention.
"We had two million impressions on social media during Rail Safety Week," said South Simcoe Police Staff Sgt. Steve Wilson. "Our goal was to raise awareness and I think we accomplished our goal."
Students learned that it can take up to two kilometres for a train to stop and by then, it's too late.
"Distracted driving is prevalent everywhere in society, not just at crossings. But when a train and a car meet, you're 40 times more likely to die in that kind of collision. So be safe. That's the biggest message, " said Steve Harvey, Manager Operational Support, Intelligence and Analysis - Safety & Security Division at GO Transit.
Vice Principal P.J. MacFadden told the assembly that he was overcome with emotion after seeing one of his students laying on the ground and then being placed in a body bag.
"That is an absolute nightmare for any teacher, parent - anyone," he said.
The student was acting the part of the fatality but the realism made an impression.
"It was pretty shocking to learn about how bad it can be. Not paying attention for a few seconds can risk your life or somebody else's life," said student Nardine Yalda, who is getting her G2 license next month.
"It was really touching, seeing how it is. It changes how you drive," said Brandon Domingues, 16, who says he got the message.
"Not to use my phone while I'm driving anywhere."
The founders of Project C.R.A.S.H. also participated in the assembly.
Sisters Emmily and Maggie Bradley created the road safety initiative while attending police foundations at Georgian College.
