Training for Terrorist Attacks

Benton and Washington Counties emergency services tackled real like scenarios today at the Bud Walton Arena. It started with a simulated chemical attack, and in seconds, emergency services were clearing the arena. Emergency agencies from Washington and Benton counties spent the day in training exercises, similar to a terrorist attack. Various simulated attacks tested their abilities and plan of action. Director of emergency services in Washington County, John Luther, said it`s crucial they keep up with the federal requirements or they wont receive funding. This is the first exercise of this scale that the EMS, fire departments and emergency management has practiced. To make it appear real, volunteers acted out real life injuries that could be sustained from a weapon of mass destruction. Luther said this type of training also helps in natural disasters like the devastating tornadoes earlier this month. After all the exercises they will asses how the agencies handled these highly dangerous scenarios. In order for the various agencies to receive federal aid they must put on these exercises. Last year alone, the federal government gave 740-thousand to Northwest Arkansas for updated equipment.