Jefferson County to hold emergency response training exercise at Woodlawn Schools

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ill. (KBSI) — The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office will conduct a large-scale emergency response training exercise Monday at Woodlawn Schools.

The exercise is scheduled to begin at 7 a.m. March 9 and is designed to strengthen coordination and preparedness among local emergency response agencies in the event of a large-scale incident.

Officials said the training will simulate a critical emergency scenario, allowing first responders and partner agencies to practice unified response procedures, communication strategies and lifesaving operations in a controlled environment.

Agencies participating in the exercise include SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital, Deaconess Illinois Crossroads, Litton’s Ambulance Service, United Medical Response Ambulance Service, Air Evac Lifeteam, the Mount Vernon Police Department, the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office and several fire departments from across Jefferson County.

Authorities emphasized the event is only a training exercise. Residents and motorists in the area may see an increased presence of emergency vehicles and personnel near Woodlawn Schools during the exercise.

Officials said there is no cause for alarm and thanked the community for its cooperation as agencies work to improve readiness for real-world emergencies.