A realistic training exercise at the Pueblo Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant prepared staff for the unexpected last September.

“In an effort to strengthen our culture of preparedness, the Pueblo plant participated in the Prominent Hunt Exercise,” said Dan Hulbert, emergency preparedness manager, PCAPP.

The training event involved a simulated explosion from a suspicious package near office trailers on the plant site. A smoke machine was used to make the explosion appear more authentic. Role-player victims, complete with special effects make-up to simulate serious injuries, were staged inside and outside the trailer offices. The role-players also acted as if their wounds were painful, allowing for a realistic training, said Hulbert.

“Though a situation like this is highly unlikely, our team should be prepared to respond confidently to as many potential threats as possible,” said Hulbert.

The PCAPP Emergency Response Team, PCAPP medical team, Pueblo Chemical Depot first response teams, and Soldiers from the U.S. Army 4^th Infantry Division of Fort Carson participated in the exercise.