On September 25, 2024, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Pinal County will host a comprehensive, multi-agency full-scale exercise to enhance emergency preparedness and communication across multiple levels of government and first responder agencies. The exercise will simulate a large-scale emergency scenario involving a chemical release caused by a train derailment, testing the coordination and readiness of law enforcement, fire departments, the National Guard, and emergency medical services.

The goal of the exercise is to evaluate the interoperability and operational readiness of various first responder agencies in Pinal County in response to a complex, large-scale incident. The U.S. Border Patrol will facilitate the event, with Exercise Director Agent Carlos Ortiz noting, "This exercise provides a valuable opportunity for our emergency response teams to practice and refine their skills in a controlled environment. The lessons learned will be crucial to enhancing our preparedness for real-world emergencies."

The exercise will take place at two locations in Casa Grande: the vacant outlet mall parking lot on E. Tanger Drive and Banner Casa Grande Hospital on E. Florence Boulevard. Additionally, Banner Queen Creek Hospital on S. Ellsworth Loop Road in Queen Creek, Arizona, will also be part of the drill.

Residents in these areas should expect to see increased activity from emergency vehicles and personnel throughout the day. The public is advised to avoid the exercise locations and to follow any posted instructions to ensure their safety. It is important to note that regular emergency services will not be impacted by the exercise.