LOUISVILLE, Miss. (Queen City Newsfeed) Drivers in Winston County should plan ahead for Monday morning. A Louisville disaster drill will close parts of the Highway 15/25 Bypass on Oct. 26.
The City of Louisville shared the news on its Facebook page. Winston Medical Center is running the drill. The Louisville Fire Department and many other local groups will also take part.
What You May See Monday
The drill is a planned training exercise. Crews will act out a fake accident. So people nearby may see fire trucks, police cars, ambulances and medical helicopters. Many emergency workers will also be at the scene.
However, none of it will be real. In its post, the city said, “This activity is part of a planned training exercise involving a simulated accident.”
Road Closures and Travel Tips
Parts of the Highway 15/25 Bypass will close for a short time during the drill. The city did not say which parts will close. It also did not give a start or end time.
So drivers should give themselves extra time on Monday morning. The city also asks drivers to slow down and use caution. In addition, follow the directions of workers who are handling traffic.
Do Not Call 911 About the Drill
The city has a clear message for anyone who sees the scene. “Please keep clear of the drill scene and do not call 911 to report the simulated incident. Continue to call 911 for actual emergencies.”
In other words, stay away from the drill area. But if you have a real emergency, still call 911 like you normally would.
Who Is Taking Part
Many local groups will train side by side. They are:
- Winston Medical Center
- Louisville Fire Department
- Louisville Police Department
- Winston County Sheriff’s Department
- Louisville Medical Clinic
- Winston Louisville Career and Technology Center
- EMS
- Winston County Emergency Management Agency
- Diamond Grove Center
Why Drills Like This Matter
The city said training together helps firefighters and other responders talk to each other better. It also lets them practice skills that save lives. Plus, they learn how to share people and equipment during a big emergency.
Winston Medical Center is the only hospital in Winston County, according to its website. Louisville knows how much that matters. In April 2014, a strong EF4 tornado tore through the city. The National Weather Service said the hospital took heavy damage and could not be used.
The city thanked people for their patience with traffic delays. It also thanked them for their support as the groups work together to keep the community safe.
Have a question about the drill? Call the City of Louisville at (662) 773-9201.
