Emergency Drill Coming to Redlands Soon

Residents around the University of Redlands might hear the sounds of emergency vehicles rushing to the campus Tuesday.

But there will be no need to fear. This is a scheduled drill, said Redlands officials.

Starting about 8:30 a.m. on April 23, the Redlands Police and Fire Department, the University of Redlands, Redlands Unified School District and American Medical Response will conduct an emergency preparedness drill, said Carl Baker, spokesman for the city.

The training will be held primarily at Ann Peppers Hall on the University of Redlands campus and is expected to be completed by noon, Baker said.

“The training drill will simulate emergency incidents on the University of Redlands campus and provide emergency responders, including police, firefighters, paramedics, ambulance drivers, and school security personnel for both the university and school district with a realistic scenario and an opportunity to practice emergency response tactics and procedures,” Baker said.

Officials warn that students, university employees and neighbors will likely hear and see some of the emergency drill. Some of the noises will include simulated gunshots and shouting. They may also see law enforcement personnel wielding firearms, Baker said.

“Please note that these are a part of the training exercises, and are not cause for alarm,” Baker said. The City and the university will provide information to the campus and surrounding neighborhood prior to the drill, he added.

Emergency preparedness drills allow emergency responders to evaluate tactics and readiness for similar emergencies, Baker said.