LAKEPORT, Calif. — On Wednesday, May 14, the Lakeport Police Department joined Clear Lake High School and local emergency service agencies in delivering the Every 15 Minutes program, an emotionally impactful experience designed to educate students about the dangers of impaired and distracted driving.

The event took place near Hartley Street and Anastasia Drive and featured a simulated DUI-related traffic collision involving student participants.

The scene included a coordinated emergency response from law enforcement, fire, EMS and REACH Air Medical Services.

Students then participated in followup programming focused on real-world consequences and personal reflection.

This two-day event culminated in a school-wide assembly with guest speakers and impactful messaging.

The Every 15 Minutes program provides a powerful reminder that impaired driving affects entire communities.

By recreating the emotional realities of a fatal crash, the program encourages students to pause and consider the consequences of poor choices behind the wheel.

This initiative supports the department’s broader efforts in traffic safety and youth prevention, including the use of funding from the Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program.

Through this grant, the Lakeport Police Department has conducted targeted DUI enforcement operations throughout the year to reduce impaired driving and promote roadway safety.

Programs like Every 15 Minutes complement these enforcement efforts by delivering critical education and early intervention.

The department is proud to have collaborated with Clear Lake High School, Lakeport Fire Protection District, California Highway Patrol – Clear Lake, Lake County Sheriff’s Office, Lake County Probation Department, REACH Air Medical Services, and many dedicated school staff and volunteers.

The Lakeport Police Department extended its deepest appreciation to the entire Lakeport community for its support.

“From educators and parents to emergency responders and behind-the-scenes volunteers, this effort would not have been possible without a shared commitment to protecting and educating our youth,” the agency said in its report on the event.

“Efforts like these serve as a solemn but vital reminder: Every decision behind the wheel matters — and every life in our community matters,” the Lakeport Police Department said.