UNCP, in collaboration with local partners, will conduct first responder training exercises at the Village Apartments on select dates in December and January. These exercises supports critical first responder training needs and prepares the site for the construction of UNCP's new health sciences building.
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What training exercises will be conducted on the UNCP campus?
The University of North Carolina at Pembroke will host two training exercises: a State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) training and a firefighter training program with controlled burns. Both exercises are designed to provide essential hands-on experience for law enforcement, firefighters, and students, preparing them for real-life emergency scenarios.
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What is the purpose of the controlled burn and SBI training at UNC Pembroke?
The training provides invaluable hands-on experience for students and local emergency personnel, simulating real-life scenarios. The controlled burn is part of a firefighter training program in partnership with Robeson Community College and local fire departments. Additionally, the burn will prepare the Village Apartments site for the new Allied Health Sciences Building.
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What is the purpose of the SBI training, and when will it take place?
The SBI training will occur from December 17 (10 a.m. - 7 p.m.) to December 19, 2024 (8 a.m. - 4 p.m.), in the Village Apartments on campus. It includes breaching exercises, bomb squad training, and hostage rescue simulations. These drills will involve flash bangs, breaching explosives, and other controlled entry methods on the first floors of the buildings.
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When will the controlled burns for firefighter training take place?
The firefighter training program, which includes a series of controlled burns, is scheduled for December 21, 22, 28, 29, and January 4, 5, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.
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What materials are being burned, and how will air quality be affected?
Approximately 95% of the building materials are wood. An external agency has confirmed that no asbestos is present. Around 80% of the smoke from the burns will rise and disperse away from campus, though some drift may occur. This smoke is not expected to cause significant air quality issues.
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What safety measures are in place to protect the public and campus community?
- Perimeter Fencing and Screening: A 6 feet tall construction fence with a mesh screen will enclose the burn area.
- Traffic Control: The NC Department of Transportation (DOT) will post signs two weeks before the burn, indicating driveway and road closures. Detours will be in place on burn days.
- Security: Campus police will manage access points to ensure public safety.
- Monitoring: Firefighters and safety personnel will be on-site throughout the burns and will remain until the area is safe.
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Will there be any changes to traffic or pedestrian access?
Yes, a turning lane near the entrance of the Village Apartments on Prospect Road will be closed during both the SBI training and the controlled burn periods. Detours will be clearly marked, and drivers are encouraged to follow posted signs.
Pedestrian sidewalks in close proximity to the Village Apartments will also be closed for safety. The fire department will lay large diameter hose (LDH) across sidewalks and roadways in different locations on the burn dates. Pedestrians may carefully step over the hoses but should exercise caution to avoid tripping and falling.
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What happens if a burn cannot proceed as planned?
Controlled burns can often proceed in light rain. If weather prevents a burn, the team may conduct two burns on another day, within safety and training guidelines.
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Will the burn area be monitored overnight?
Yes, once each structure has burned, it will continue to smolder, and hot spots may be present throughout the night. Firefighters and safety personnel will stay on-site to monitor and secure the area.
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How is the burn area being prepared for this exercise?
The Village Apartments site has been tested to meet all safety standards, and all live burn activities will comply with the requirements of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
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What should the community expect during the SBI and firefighter training days?
Community members may notice loud sounds from the SBI training exercises, smoke from the controlled burns, and some traffic detours. The cooperation of the community in avoiding the area during these periods will ensure a safe environment for all involved.
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Who can I contact for questions or concerns about these training exercises?
For questions or concerns, please reach out to Mike Bullard, UNCP Director of Environmental Health & Safety at Michael.Bullard@uncp.edu.