The former Sears location was offered up for training to Maryville’s public safety teams by the current owners – CMH Properties, LLC – during the month of September in advance of the building’s scheduled demolition.
“This is an incredible opportunity for us to be able to train inside a retail structure that is similar to many others in our community,” said Chief Tony Crisp, Maryville Public Safety Director. “Not only will we have the opportunity to practice our skills; we will also have practical experience with the challenges buildings like this might pose and be better prepared to respond in an emergency.”
Maryville Police will conduct K-9 and SWAT training September 16 and 18, and Maryville Fire will use the facility the last two weeks of September. Activity will include the use of smoke machines for simulated fire rescue drills as well as other emergency responder skills training and extrication and rescue tools practice. There may also be some “flash bang” noises used during the drills, but most activity will be contained within the walls of the building.
No exterior walls will be broken, but visitors to the mall may notice activity around the building and potentially see smoke from the smoke machines. All mall tenants have been notified of the plans.
“We are so appreciative of the opportunity CMH Properties has given us to practice using critical rescue tools and skills,” said Crisp. “This training will provide valuable assistance to us as we perform our duties to the community.”
For more information about the training, contact Maryville Police at 865-273-3700.