Newark responders to drill for major downtown collapse

Host of agencies to conduct disaster training

NEWARK -- City public safety officials on Wednesday are set to conduct a mock rescue drill that simulates a collapse of a major downtown structure.

The drill will take place at the city's Fire Training Academy on Orange Street, according to the Department of Public Safety. Emergency crews will train for a mock collapse of the Gateway One walkway.

The scenario will include injuries and people trapped, officials said in a statement. Members of the city police and fire divisions, emergency management office, NJ Transit, local hospitals and Community Emergency Response Team will participate.

In addition to testing rescue skills, the event will help participants hone emergency management decision making for a large disaster, officials said. The course is set to last over more than three days.

Noah Cohen may be reached at ncohen@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @noahyc. Find NJ.com on Facebook.