Disaster exercise

The Van Wert County Emergency Management/LEPC held a tabletop exercise Wednesday at Wren Fire Department that simulated a hazardous materials crash, fire, and chemical explosion in downtown Wren. Discussion centered on mutual aid, how to adequately notify the public to evacuate in a timely and safe manner, and sheltering residents until the threat was over. Participating were Wren Fire & EMS, Wren Mayor Monica Davis, the local American Red Cross chapter, Van Wert County Health Department Emergency Coordinator Leesa Brown, Van Wert State Highway Patrol, Sheriff Tom Riggenbach, Van Wert County EMA, and Ohio EMA. Drills are conducted in a different village each year to fulfill state requirements and give local officials disaster scenarios that would fully task local agencies. (photo submitted)