Training exercise to be conducted by emergency responders at Iowa capitol

DES MOINES – On December 12, 2013, the Iowa Department of Public Safety in partnership with many local, state, and federal agencies, will execute a training exercise at the State of Iowa Capitol. This exercise will center on effective response and resolution to incidents which involve a suspicious package with unknown biological or chemical material and also involve an active shooter scenario.

Members of the media and public are advised this is a training exercise. If you see any activity or emergency vehicles at the Capitol between 6:00pm and 9:00pm, there is no need for public concern.

Participants in the exercise include the Iowa National Guard 71st CST; Des Moines Fire/HazMat; the Department of Public Safety Divisions of the Iowa State Patrol and State Fire Marshal; Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management; Polk County Emergency Management; and the United Postal Inspection Service.

Through cooperation, planning, and training events such as this, Iowa and the State Capitol will continue to be a safe place to live, work and visit.