Residents may notice increased emergency response activity at Muskoseepi Park on Thursday, September 24 as part of a planned provincial emergency response exercise.

The activity is a training exercise and not a real emergency.

The exercise is part of the Alberta Support and Emergency Response Team (ASERT) Annual Exercise and Training Week, taking place in Grande Prairie from September 21 to 25. Classroom training and field-based learning are taking place throughout the week, leading into Thursday’s functional exercise at Muskoseepi Park.

Participants will respond to a simulated hazardous materials and environmental incident in Muskoseepi Park, allowing agencies to practise working together during a complex response.

Residents may see emergency response personnel, vehicles and equipment in the park, including participants working near the water as part of the simulated hazardous materials and environmental response.

The City of Grande Prairie and Grande Prairie Regional Emergency Partnership (GPREP) are participating alongside ASERT and other provincial and federal response agencies. The exercise provides an opportunity to practise roles, test response procedures and strengthen coordination ahead of real emergencies.

Residents should follow any posted signage or directions from exercise personnel while activity is underway.