Hughes-Stanley County emergency training drill being held this evening at Georgia Morse Middle School

There will be a lot of commotion in and around Georgia Morse Middle School in Pierre this evening (July 8), but…. it is only a test.

Hughes and Stanley County Emergency Management director Rob Fines says emergency responders will be conducting their annual training.

Fines says the annual training provides an opportunity for all of the emergency response agencies to work as a team.

Fines says the drill gives newer responders the opportunity to learn in a non-stressful situation, while also giving seasoned responders a chance to learn about new techniques and equipment.

Hughes County Emergency Management will be conducting the drill in conjunction with the Pierre Police Department, Hughes County Sheriff’s Office, Stanley County Sheriff’s Office, Pierre Fire Department, Fort Pierre Fire Department, American Medical Response and Avera St. Mary’s Hospital.

Again, a large emergency response presence will be seen in the immediate area of the Georgia Morse Middle School in Pierre this evening because of the annual training exercise.