Lancaster County Department of public safety seeking public participation in points of distribution training

Lancaster, PA – On Wednesday, October 1st from 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM the Lancaster County Department of Public Safety – Emergency Management Division will be conducting a Points of Distribution (POD) exercise as a part of their many annual preparedness trainings.

The exercise is designed to test emergency responders in setting up a POD location in the event of a public health emergency. These centralized locations would serve as a designated place the public can pick up life-sustaining commodities following a disaster or emergency. This includes things such as shelf-stable food, bottled water, medication, ice, tarps, blankets, etc.

The Lancaster County Department of Public Safety is seeking the public’s help to conduct the exercise. All are welcome and encouraged to participate including adults, children, teens, senior residents and individuals with specialized needs. By ensuring a diverse group of volunteers, it can better prepare emergency responders for a live incident and keep Lancaster County residents safe. By participating in the exercise, residents can understand what to expect during a real public health emergency.

The training will take place at Penn Medicine Park 650 N Prince St, Lancaster, PA 17603 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The public and members of the media are welcome to attend. In addition to the training, partner organizations with the Department of Public Safety will have various tables, displays and information to aid in personal preparedness for residents.

The Department of Public Safety regularly conducts training across the county to prepare for all disaster scenarios. To learn more about staying prepared in the event of an emergency visit: https://www.co.lancaster.pa.us/141/Emergency-Management-Division.