SOUTHWICK – The Southwick Emergency Management Agency will be hosting a lengthy training event on Saturday June 24 into Sunday June 25th that is open to the public.
Starting at 2 p.m. Saturday and lasting until 2 a.m. Sunday morning, a radio communications training exercise under simulated disaster conditions will be taking place at the Southwick DPW and the Alternate Emergency Operations Center Facilities on 661 College Hwy.
“It is outreach to the public of what we have, what we do, and our capabilities for emergency communications,” said Emergency Management Director Charlie Dunlap.
Emergency Management Director Charlie Dunlap at work in the operations center. (WNG File Photo)
The simulated disaster is based on cyber terrorism with the loss of internet and interruptions to cellphones and telephones.
According to information obtained by The Westfield News, several wireless communication modes and contingency methods will be tested to facilitate emergency message communications for local, regional, and national needs.
The exercise will also be a way for the public to realize the reality of a situation like cyber terrorism.
“It can happen at any time,” said Dunlap. “Who do you turn to?”
Held annually throughout communities in the United States and Canada, the multi-hour training has been around since 1933.
If anyone has any questions or wants further information, call Southwick Emergency Management at 413-569-0308.
