Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service's '5 in 5' virtual reality film for young drivers is a finalist in the NFCC Prevention Awards, decided on 26 November.
A virtual reality film that Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service shows young drivers in its Vision Van is a finalist in the NFCC Prevention Awards 2026. The winners are due to be named on 26 November.
The film, called ‘5 in 5’, was made last year by the service’s prevention team with colleagues from Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service, who share the nomination. It warns young drivers about the risks they face behind the wheel.
The Vision Van is the service’s road safety vehicle. It takes virtual reality films to schools and local events across Bedfordshire. Inside, users sit in hydraulic chairs and are put into a virtual reality scenario that, the service says, gives them a realistic understanding of what can distract a driver or make them lose concentration on the road.
“Safer choices on the road”
Station Commander Matt Hyland of Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service led the project with Kate Garrigan of Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service.
“We are extremely pleased to be named finalists for this very important piece of work, which was designed to help young and novice drivers make safer choices on the road,” he said.
“It provides a great example of what can be achieved through collaborative working and the positive impact it can have on our communities.”
Five risks, one at a time
The film takes its name from its structure: five risks, each dealt with in turn.
- distraction, particularly carrying passengers
- fatigue
- speeding
- mobile phone use
- not wearing a seat belt
The service describes ‘5 in 5’ as “the next generation of road safety education”, combining immersive technology, behavioural science and practical life-saving messages for young drivers.
The awards
The NFCC Prevention Awards are run by the National Fire Chiefs Council and recognise the people, teams and projects making a real contribution to prevention work across fire and rescue services. This year’s ceremony is due to take place in South Gloucestershire on 26 November.
The announcement is on the Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service bulletin of 6 November. The service’s earlier advice this month is in our pieces on Diwali fire safety and being ready for an emergency.
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