Upcoming exercise prompts preparation

The 27th Special Operations Wing is scheduled to conduct a major accident response exercise Thursday at Cannon Air Force Base.

Everyone on base between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. should expect extensive delays and changes to normal operations. Both gates to the installation will shut down for approximately 10 to 15 minutes during this timeframe. Please plan accordingly in anticipation of this closure.

Also expect to hear sirens, giant voice announcements and restricted movement procedures, such as a shelter-in-place, to be implemented. All active duty military members are expected to participate to the maximum extent possible.

Military housing, to include Joe Cannon Estates and Chavez West Manor, will be affected by the exercise. Take time to review SIP procedures and know how to evacuate, although completion of an actual evacuation during the exercise is very unlikely.

The goal of the exercise is to educate personnel and residents on how to react and respond to a hazardous material incident.

Base residents can expect to receive further guidance regarding the upcoming exercise and proper steps to take in staged and real-world situations.

Any questions or concerns regarding SIP or evacuations can be directed to the 27th Special Operations Civil Engineer Squadron Readiness and Emergency Management Flight at 575-784-1447 or 575-784-6401.