44th Civil Support Team and Gainesville Fire Rescue to conduct exercise at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium 

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The 44th Civil Support Team and Gainesville Fire Rescue will participate in an exercise on Thursday, Dec. 2 from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. The exercise aims to test and improve the respondents’ preparedness during an emergency.

During the exercise, participants will simulate a chemical and biological attack on the community. Although the incident is not real, the response activities will be as realistic as possible. Emergency responders will use fire gear and hazmat suits and carry response equipment. An area for decontamination will be designated, and several trucks and trailers will be parked around Gate 6 at the stadium.

The exercise area will not be open to the public. We ask you not to approach the exercise’s participants for your safety and theirs. The exercise will not disrupt the university’s operations.

Individuals can always take steps to prepare themselves and their loved ones for emergencies. Be informed, make a plan, build a disaster supply kit and get involved through opportunities that support community’s preparedness.

To learn more about emergency preparedness, please visit emergency.ufl.edu. Members of the media may contact Lt. Col. Troy Eastman at 904-682-2401.

As always, we thank you for your support and cooperation during this exercise.

Chief Linda J. Stump-Kurnick
Assistant Vice President of Public and Environment Safety
University of Florida