The nightmarish atrocities at Columbine, Boulder, and other schools have inspired officials to conduct the first full-scale school shooting simulation in Baldwin County. The exercise will take place at Central Baldwin Middle School on Thursday, Jan. 3 between 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

The event is a collaborative effort between the Baldwin County Emergency Management Agency, the Baldwin County Board of Education, and local law enforcement and first responders. The effort is funded by a Fiscal Year 2006 Grant Initiative by the Alabama Department of Homeland Security and the Baldwin County Commission.

According to a County Commission press release, the exercise will focus on preparing emergency responders to effectively respond to a school shooting incident. It will also provide officials with feedback on the proficiency of the tasks that make up critical emergency response operations.

Due to the dozens of agencies participating and the gravity of the situation simulated, there will be some road closings that residents need to be aware of. The intersection of County Road 56 (Thompson Road) and Highway 59 will be closed as will the entrance to CBMS from Highway 59. However, the north and south lanes of Highway 59 will remain open.