Submitted by Thurston County Board of County Commissioners
Thurston County offices and departments at the main courthouse campus briefly close at various times between Monday, June 3 and Friday, June 7 for emergency preparedness drills. County employees will be asked to ‘lock down’ the buildings sometime during the week. The drills are expected to last less than 30 minutes.
What: Lock Down Drills
Where: Thurston County Courthouse, 2000 Lakeridge Dr. SW Olympia
When: Monday, June through Friday, June 7 at various times
Duration: Less than 30 minutes
“These drills are an important part of our service to the public,” said Commission Chair John Hutchings. “When we have an emergency that might require county workers to lock themselves in a secure office, it’s vital for the safety of the public and our staff that we get it right. It’s important to occasionally practice our reaction to make sure everyone knows the proper response, as well as their roles and responsibilities, in emergency situations.”
County Manager Ramiro Chavez said, “During the drill, courthouse visitors will be given an explanation of what is happening, and the choice to wait in gathering areas or in their vehicles until the drill is over. We expect the drills to be brief and appreciate the patience of the public as we practice our emergency response.”
County staff will be located both inside and outside the buildings to assist the public during the drills.
Featured photo credit: Diane Waiste
