Fire Chief Robert Westerman encourages Mayor Carvalho (seated) as he begins his driver simulation course
By Staff Reports
(LÎHU’E)– The Kaua’i Fire Department announced the arrival of its newly acquired driver simulator at a demonstration held at the Lîhu’e Fire Station.
The driver simulator, housed in a 30-foot trailer, uses virtual simulation technology to train drivers in an environment that resembles real-life scenarios. A large three-panel screen that surrounds a bucket seat, steering wheel, brake and accelerator, gives the driver the sense that he or she is operating a vehicle in almost any condition.
“It’s incredible how real it feels,” said Mayor Bernard Carvalho, Jr. as he simulated driving a fire truck down a busy street. “Most importantly, it gives our crews the tools they need to learn how to operate their vehicles safely in a controlled environment.”
During the demonstration, Kaua’i Fire Chief Robert Westerman explained that the technology can be used by departments countywide to simulate operating nearly any type of vehicle, including: semi-trucks; police cars; tractors and buses.
“Representatives from the Kaua’i Bus were here this week and used the equipment to simulate driving a bus,” said Chief Westerman. “Operators of every vehicle must pay attention to pedestrians, reckless drivers and other hazardous conditions. This training tool enhances the operator’s senses by providing those scenarios.”
The purpose of the driver simulator is to help teach drivers how to make proper decisions while behind the wheel and learn from their mistakes, without the safety concerns or liability that comes with driving on the road.
“This equipment is intended to compliment, not replace, actual driving time,” added Chief Westerman.
Funding for the simulator was obtained through a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) program grant, which contributed 80% of the $218,000 total cost. It was procured through L3 Communications and an instructor from the company was on-hand this week to train the team trainers.
“We look forward to using this equipment as an added training tool for our driver certification and annual recertification process,” said Chief Westerman. “Any tool that can improve safety, for both our personnel and the general public, is a wise investment.”