The Sacramento Police Department is participating in a mock emergency exercise in partnership with Mercy General Hospital, Sacramento Fire Department, and the City/County Office of Emergency Services.

On Saturday, May 14, 2011, from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., at Mercy General Hospital, several agencies will take part in an emergency preparedness exercise simulating an armed subject entering the hospital. The incident will mimic many workplace violence incidents that have occurred nationally in hospitals.

The purpose of this exercise is for the participating agencies to practice the use of a Unified Command System. During the exercise, personnel will focus on coordinated efforts, critical decision making and support roles between all involved agencies.

Unfortunately, workplace violence is a reality and exercises like this help prepare our emergency personnel for similar real life situations.