First responders in Brookhaven and Lincoln County will be put to the test this morning during a simulated helicopter crash behind K&B Seafood on Hwy. 51.

The “crash” will take place about 10 a.m. in the wooded area behind the restaurant, which is about the length of two football fields away from the helicopter pad at King’s Daughters Medical Center.

“The simulation will be a helicopter crash, which will cause great concerns for all emergency services in the city of Brookhaven,” said Clifford Galey, emergency management director for Lincoln County. “Also, it will involve a great number of our medical providers and healthcare facilities. This exercise will test the readiness of all involved and allow all to assess our response and find any aspects that need updating.”

Motorists and shoppers can expect to see a flurry of activity in the area near Hwy. 51 and Hwy. 550 for this training exercise, with emergency vehicles with lights and sirens and law officers and medical personnel in emergency mode.

Galey said besides his office, others participating include Brookhaven Police Department, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Brookhaven Fire Department and medical personnel from KDMC and other health care agencies. Mississippi Highway Patrol will not be participating in this drill, however, Galey said that in emergency situations, troopers are available to assist other law enforcement officers.