This drill was the largest ever conducted within the county's boundaries.
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This drill was the largest ever conducted within the county's boundaries.
CANTON -- According to county officials, an active shooter simulation at the St. Lawrence County Courthouse successfully assessed the area's emergency response capabilities.
At the Operations Committee meeting on January 6, Emergency Services Director Matt Denner briefed county legislators on the outcomes of the recent training exercise.
Denner noted that the county and emergency response teams had been preparing for the event for over a year, emphasizing that it was the most extensive drill to date.
"I can see the effects of the exercise...we held a short debriefing with law enforcement, fire, EMS, and a few participants at the county office following the exercise," he stated.
This training simulation is one of the few conducted in recent years as local, county, state, and federal agencies work to improve their readiness to handle various emergencies and scenarios stemming from emerging threats.
Denner mentioned that a survey was circulated to all participants after the exercise ended, and the initial feedback indicated that the event was "quite successful," he commented.
"Denner highlighted that the key takeaway from the surveys is the significance of communication."
He mentioned that a meeting is scheduled soon to allow all emergency responders to review and discuss the survey results.
Denner remarked, "Although we have held similar exercises in the past, this is our first time at such a large scale."
Denner explained that the drill involved law enforcement securing the entire facility, with fire and EMS on standby until required.
In recent years, similar events have also occurred at various government buildings and local schools.
Another event is scheduled at a local school on January 31st, but county officials did not disclose during the meeting which district would be involved.
Denner stated that these events are an excellent opportunity to refine procedures and uncover vulnerabilities in responses, allowing the county to work more effectively with local governments and educational institutions.
Denner mentioned, "We gather many small insights that we can communicate and share with each school district."
He stated that these exercises are an excellent way to synchronize first responders, especially when they do not often collaborate.
Denner said, "It promotes collaboration and communication among law enforcement, fire services, and EMS as well."
Authorities have expressed their intention to conduct additional exercises in the coming year, though a specific schedule has not yet been announced.
