Murphy – Cherokee County Schools, law enforcement and other public safety agencies will be conducting an emergency response drill at Murphy High School the morning of Wednesday, Aug. 23.
The drill will give public safety agencies as well as school personnel an opportunity to train together during a realistic active shooter event, said Robin Caldwell, Cherokee County director of emergency services.
There will be no students on the property during the drill, though various administrators will be present at the command post to add realism to the event and improve planning for all agencies involved, Caldwell said.
“As our children return to the classroom, it is imperative that first responders continue to train so we are ready for any emergency,” Caldwell said.
Residents should expect to see an influx of law enforcement from Cherokee County Sheriff's Office, Murphy and Andrews police departments as well as the N.C. Highway Patrol. Other agencies involved include Cherokee County Emergency Medical Services, Murphy Fire Department, Erlanger Western Hospital and state and county emergency management.
The event starts around 8 a.m. and ends around 11 a.m. Motorists and pedestrians are advised to take an alternate route around the school, or use caution in the area of Murphy High School.