Defensive driving course offered on Keesler Published May 23, 2012 By Susan Griggs 81st Training Wing Public Affairs KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Just in time for summer traffic, Keesler members can register for the second installment of Keesler's Street Survival School by June 19. The class is scheduled from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 23 with a classroom portion at Professional Development Building 2902 and a hands-on portion on Ramp 3 of the flight line. The aim of the school is to reduce deadly car crashes involving teenagers, beginner drivers, as well as experienced drivers by providing them a controlled setting where they can gain valuable hands-on experience in car control in real-world situations, according to Master Sgt. Richie Frias, 81st Medical Support Squadron unit deployment manager, who's spearheading the event. All students, whether beginner or experienced, will have a knowledgeable coach at their side throughout the class to help them understand how important experience is rather than guessing when something unexpected happens on the road that could kill them, their passengers or others sharing the road. This training goes beyond the typical driver's education. Driving is done in the student's own car, but no 4x4 or lifted vehicles are allowed, so drivers can learn about their vehicle's handling limits and how to control them. Challenging courses are created in a controlled area to allow the student to experience abnormal car behavior and how to handle the new situation. Part of the driving course is wet to let students experience "mistakes" at a very slow speed. It's not a course for learning how to drive at high speeds -- safety and car control are the objectives. Some insurance companies even offer discounts for participants that take courses like this. Spaces are limited to the first 30 participants. Those with driver's permits are allowed based on space availability with parental consent. There is a $35 fee for participation, and registration must be received and paid for by June 21. To reserve a spot or for more information, call 228-376-3123, email keeslerautox@gmail.com or visit www.streetsurvival.org.