Effingham, IL – Law enforcement and school officials in Effingham are preparing for a visible emergency response presence at Effingham High School this week as part of a planned active shooter response training exercise.
According to the Effingham Police Department, the training will take place on Tuesday, July 15, and Thursday, July 17, at the high school campus. The department emphasizes that there is no actual threat to the public, and the exercise is a scheduled, controlled drill intended to help officers, school staff, and first responders practice coordinated responses in the event of a real crisis.
Residents can expect to see officers in uniform and marked vehicles on school grounds during the exercises. Simulated scenarios will take place inside classrooms, common areas, and around the campus, occasionally utilizing training blanks—no live ammunition will be used. Temporary road closures or parking adjustments may also occur while the drills are underway.
Officials are asking the community to avoid the school grounds during drill hours if possible and to share the notice with friends, family, and neighbors. “These exercises are critical for preparing our officers, school staff, and first responders to effectively respond in the event of a real crisis,” the department said in a public statement.
Authorities further request that residents refrain from calling 911 to report the training exercise, as it is not an actual emergency. The department thanked the community for their understanding and support, noting that such cooperation helps ensure the ongoing safety of both schools and the wider Effingham area.
Effingham Police say these proactive measures are part of a broader commitment to community and school safety throughout Illinois.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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