The Indiana Department of Homeland Security will conduct a full-scale exercise in Argos later this week.
The training will simulate a train derailment and HAZMAT leak on the Norfolk Southern railway.
This is a regional training, and those traveling through Argos on Friday and/or Saturday should not be alarmed if they see increased emergency vehicles or First Aid tents near the train tracks or the fairgrounds. There is NO emergency, and NO chemicals are being released.
This HAZMAT hands-on safety training for Marshall County and regional officials on how to act in case a train derails with hazardous materials.
Last year, Marshall County hosted a train derailment tabletop discussion at Seasons Banquet Center with emergency responders coming from as far away as Fort Wayne. Participants planned what they would do if a train derailment occurred. The East Palestine, OH derailment is a prominent example and resulted in air pollution, contaminated water, and long-term health concerns for residents.
The plans from 2024 will be put to the test during this week’s hands-on exercise, where local and regional safety officials will simulate in real-time what they would do during a train derailment situation.
This intensive two-day exercise has emergency responders physically handling the train derailment on the first day, and on the second day, they will focus on the community and economic recovery. The second day, they will also recap with officials what worked correctly and changes they might need to make to their plan.
Bills signed to protect kids from exploitation on social media, crack down on online predators
Illinois 9-1-1 call centers upgraded
Local couple arrested by Lawrenceville Police
Flags ordered to half-staff for Captain Seth Koval
Illinois DMV text scams continue in Lawrence and surrounding counties
Enhanced fire risk warning for southeastern Illinois and southwestern Indiana
Indiana launches enforcement campaign to target distracted driving and speeding
New Second Circuit Judge named in Richland County
Lawrenceville arrests
New Space Force license plate design
Gun control bills stall in Illinois House
NWS freeze warning issued for region
Lawrenceville to flush water lines and clean cemetery
Lawrence County Unit #20 moving toward hiring principals
Railroad crossing project in Lawrence County planned in 2026
INDOT Knox County ramp closure
Southeastern Illinois serial killer's murder conviction stands
New business venture coming to downtown Vincennes
