Hidalgo County (LEPC)
Local Emergency Planning Committee Haz-Mat Scenario Drill
Date: Wednesday, October 16, 2024
Time: 9:30 am
Location: Sharyland WSC Water Treatment Plant 2 12200 N. Ware Rd, McAllen, TX 78504
Introduction
The Hidalgo County Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) sponsors a full- scale Hazmat scenario drill. This exercise is designed to test the Emergency Response Plan (ERP) on record in case of a hazardous material incident. The drill will simulate a chemical release and aims to evaluate key performance indicators (KPI’s) related to the emergency response and coordination with local first responders. The primary goal is to strengthen collaboration, identify gaps, and ensure that the emergency response course of action is efficient and effective in protecting public safety during an emergency.
Sharyland Water Supply Corporation (Sharyland WSC), a non-profit water utility, is hosting the site of a simulated Chemical Release scenario on October 16, 2024. This exercise will allow participants to assess capabilities, plans, policies, and procedures. During the scenario, it will focus on decision-making, coordination, and integration with other jurisdictions/organizations. The expected outcome of the exercise is strengthening interagency coordination and creating public awareness.
Scenario
The Hazmat scenario will involve a simulated hazardous chemical incident at Sharyland WSC Water Treatment Plant 2. This type of incident poses a serious risk to public health, safety, and the environment. The drill will test not only Sharyland WSC’s internal ERP but also the coordination between local emergency first
responders. First responders will work to contain and neutralize the simulated threat, providing an opportunity to observe and assess decision-making, communication, and operational procedures. Through this realistic simulation, participants will practice emergency actions in a controlled environment, ensuring all involved parties are prepared for a real-world hazardous material release emergency.
Participants
The following agencies and organizations will participate in the exercise:
- Sharyland Water Supply Corporation
- City of McAllen Fire Department
- City of Pharr Fire Department
- City of Alton Fire Department
- City of Edinburg Fire Department
- City of Mission Fire Department
- Hidalgo County Emergency Management
- Texas Department of Emergency Management
Additional emergency response agencies and organizations may be involved as observers or evaluators.
Contact Information
For more information on this exercise, please contact:
Jesse Diaz, Deputy EMC Hidalgo County Emergency Management, 956-457-1080
Gustavo Ramirez, Hidalgo County LEPC Chair, 956-655-3402
Miguel Guerra, Assistant EMC, City of McAllen, 956-219-3041
Carlos Lima, General Manager, Sharyland WSC, 956-585-6081, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Gerardo Gracia, Operations Manager, Sharyland WSC, 956-391-9374, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
This Haz-Mat Scenario Drill is a part of the Hidalgo County Local Emergency Planning Committee and Sharyland WSC's ongoing commitment to ensuring the safety of the water supply and the well-being of the communities they serve. By conducting this drill, Hidalgo County LEPC, in collaboration with local emergency first responders, seeks to enhance preparedness and create a safer environment for all.