August 17, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (SH2009-45) FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION R. Steve Huffman Public Information Officer (251) 208-2857/Fax: (251) 208-2861 E-Mail: huffman@cityofmobile.org URBAN SEARCH & RESCUE AND STATE TROOPERS TO CONDUCT JOINT EXERCISE Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Alabama Task Force 1 members and the Alabama Department of Public Safety (AL DPS) will be conducting a joint training exercise Tuesday, August 18 and Wednesday, August 19 at the Mobile Fire-Rescue Department’s Training Academy, located at 860 Owens Street. Aircraft from the Alabama State Troopers are due to arrive at approximately 9:10 a.m. However Wednesday, August 19 might provide a better photo opportunity for the exercises. AL DPS plans to bring its two helicopters and will be doing aircraft safety classes and hands on exercises. One of the exercises conducted will be picking members of the USAR team off the top of the 4 story training tower. The purpose of this training exercise is for members of USAR and the State Troopers to become familiar with each other in the event of a storm or other type disaster where a helicopter might be needed in a rescue operation. ###