Schools, Public Safety Agencies Participate in Training Scenarios

Schools and local public safety agencies held a training exercise today in advance of the reopening of school to make sure everyone is prepared for potential emergencies, according to the Prince George’s Police Department (PGPD) blog.

In light of the shooting this morning at an Aurora, CO movie theater, the information was made public, although Police spokeswoman Julie Parker said the exercise was held as a part of the police and fire departments' regular training.

The training scenario was set up weeks ago and not announced for security reasons. Public safety officials wanted to assure the community that they train and prepare for similar events.

The exercise, held at Dr. Henry A. Wise High School in Upper Marlboro, was a joint effort among the Prince George’s County Police Department, the Prince George’s County Fire Department, and the Prince George’s County Public School System.

According the PGPD blog, training like the exercise that took place today are regular occurrences.

“Our responsibility to protect our children begins with effective strategies, and is reinforced with joint training exercises with our public safety partners,” stated PGPD Chief Mark Magaw.