Multiple agencies took part in a full scale emergency exercise Tuesday evening. The scenario featured a bus load of kids, from Norfolk Public Schools, colliding with an ammonia tank being pulled by a pickup, at the intersection of Victory Road & Kaneb Road.

First responders with Region 11 (Antelope, Madison & Pierce counties) helped treat Norfolk Public student “patients” during the three hour affair. Faith Regional Health Services also implemented its disaster plan during the drill.

“I think the exercise went great!  We all learned a lot, no one was hurt and everyone made it home safe,” said Bobbi Risor, Region 11 Emergency Manager.

The Nebraska Department of Transportation and the Madison County Sheriff’s Office assisted in closing the roadway.

Following the exercise, a debriefing was held to evaluate the multiple agencies' response and communication with everyone involved.

“It was great to see all the participation, from the planning all the way through to the end, work as well as it did involving so many entities and personnel. These drills provide an opportunity for us to work together building our relationships for the future,” said Trever O'Brien, Norfolk Assistant Fire Chief.  “It allows us to refine our skills while identifying our weaknesses for continued improvement. I believe there will be great things to come from this drill that will allow us to work better together moving forward. Again, we want to thank all that were able to participate,” O’Brien added.