Imperial Highway Lanes to Shut Down for ‘Every 15 Minutes’ Program

This morning, a portion of Imperial Highway near Jackson Street will be shut down from 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. so that the students from Lynwood High School can take part in the Every 15 Minutes Emergency exercise.

“[Passersby’s] are being advised not to become alarmed by a graphic traffic accident scene that will be shutting down the east-bound side,” said Marisela Santana, Lynwood’s public information officer, in a statement.

The national program carries out a mock up demonstration of an accident, which is suppose to function as a visible warning on the horrible things that can happen when anyone gets behind the wheel while under the influence, among other things.

“This emotionally charged program will challenge students to think about drinking, doing drugs, texting while driving, personal safety, and the responsibility of making mature decisions when lives are involved,” said Santana.

The program, which has not been to Lynwood in nearly five years, is being organized by officers from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Century Station, as well as by officials from Lynwood High School.  The program will also count with the participation of firefighters, staff from the coroner’s office and emergency medical professionals.

With graduation and prom season almost here, the program is the kind of “awareness” that LHS students need, said Lt. Ernie Chavez of the LASD.

Lynwood councilmembers are supportive of the program and voted unanimously in favor allowing the street closure.

“In my opinion, this Program should be mandatory for every high school student to watch before graduation,” said Councilman Rodriguez. “It looks like a real accident; it’s amazing to see what can easily happen when someone gets behind the wheel under the influence of alcohol.” 

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