Drivers wanted for base's street survival school Published Oct. 12, 2011 By Susan Griggs 81st Training Wing Public Affairs KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Registration is open until Nov. 4 for the inaugural Keesler Street Survival School, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 12-13. The aim of the free two-day school is to reduce deadly car crashes involving teenagers and beginner 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 medical resource management office chief, who's spearheading the event. Students ages 17-24 will have a knowledgeable coach at their sides 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. 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. Spaces are limited to the first 30 participants. Those with driver's permits are allowed based on space availability. To reserve a spot or for more information, call 228-376-4630, email keeslerautox@gmail.com or visit www.streetsurvival.org.