Local police to conduct training exercise at OHS

Orofino Police Department on Friday, April 15, in conjunction with various other law enforcement, medical, fire, state agencies, and the school district will conduct an exercise at Orofino High School at 10 a.m.

The purpose of the exercise is to take a proactive approach to prepare for an active shooter situation within the school system or any other facility. This exercise will also give each agency an opportunity to work together and learn each others’ capabilities.

Clearwater Valley Hospital and St. Joseph Regional Medical Center will also participate, in order to better prepare for large amounts of casualties. Patients being transported to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center will be transported by LifeFlight and Back Country Medic helicopters. Role players will be employed to act as the injured and will be transported to these hospitals.

The high school area will be closed to public access during the period of this exercise. Residents surrounding the high school will be permitted to go to and from their homes. Gunfire may be heard coming from inside and outside of the school.

Written notice of the event will be distributed to the surrounding residents of the school as a reminder a week prior to the exercise. Parents interested in observing the exercise are asked to express their interest by sending an e-mail to the address below. Safety officers will be employed in and around the school for those involved in the exercise, and for the surrounding residents.

Questions regarding the exercise may be directed to Cpl. Eric Dodge at the Orofino Police Department at 208-476-5551 or by e-mail to edodge@orofinopd.com.