YORK – Several York County agencies will participate in an upcoming intruder response drill at York High School.
York Public Schools, in partnership with the York Police Department, York Fire and Rescue, York General Hospital, York County Emergency Management, York County Sheriff’s Office, York County 911 and neighboring first responders, will be conducting a full-scale intruder response drill at York High School on Saturday, June 6. The drill will take place between 8 a.m. and noon.
As explained by YPS Superintendent Mitch Bartholomew, “This coordinated training exercise will simulate an intruder scenario and allow first responders and school officials to practice emergency response procedures in a controlled and well-organized environment. The drill will involve emergency vehicles, visible law enforcement presence and simulated response activities.
People are also reading…
“The purpose of this training is to improve communication and coordination among agencies; practice emergency response protocols; evaluate safety procedures; and strengthen preparedness for real-life emergencies,” Superintendent Bartholomew said further. “There is no threat to the public or the school. This is a planned training exercise designed to enhance the safety of our students, staff and community.
“To ensure the safety and effectiveness of the drill, we are asking community members to avoid the York High School area during the exercise, from 8 a.m. until noon. Limiting traffic and pedestrian activity around the campus will allow first responders to conduct the drill safely and without interruption. Media is welcome to attend – all media personnel will be required to stage in the park to the south of the high school. Media personnel will not be allowed on York High School property during the intruder exercise.
“Residents near the high school will notice increased activity, including emergency vehicles and personnel,” Bartholomew said. “We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as our agencies work together to prepare for emergency situations.
“York Public Schools and our community partners are committed to maintaining a safe learning environment,” he continued. “Training exercises like this are an important part of that commitment and help ensure that, if a real emergency ever occurs, our teams are ready to respond quickly, effectively and together. Thank you for your support and partnership in keeping our schools and community safe.”
The York County Sheriff’s Office has said, “We look forward to working with other area first responders and enhancing our responses to these types of situations. While these are scary events if they were to occur, we want to be as prepared as possible and our deputies will benefit greatly from trainings like this.”
