COLD SPRING – Seventy-five emergency responders from throughout Putnam and southern Dutchess converged on the Haldane School campus in Cold Spring for a multi-agency transitional drill Tuesday.
Police, fire and EMS agencies participated in the exercise that Sheriff Kevin McConville said was the “first such training in New York State.”
The sheriff commended the school district’s administration, faculty and staff for assisting police with the exercise. “Our goal is to educate students when not in a non-traditional classroom: Where to look; where to go; how to get there—to ensure their safety.”
The scenario began during a break between classes at the middle and high school. Law enforcement provided guidance and direction to students as well as faculty and staff.
Haldane Superintendent Phil Benante said the exercise “helped us examine our procedures including adults as well as students. We realize if an emergency should ever occur on campus, many emergency responders will rush to our assistance. This also allows these men and women to become familiar with our campus and our buildings. The drill was a great opportunity for all of us to work together while getting to know each other and most of all drilling to keep our school safe.”
McConville said plans are already being undertaken to conduct similar drills on other school campuses countywide.
