Hotchkiss Fire District is collaborating with other local, regional, and state agencies to carry out a training exercise this coming Spring, on April 1st (backup date of April 29th). It will take place in the area of Leroux Creek, including the stretch of 3100 Rd between L25 Rd north to the bridge, as well as the eastern edge of Redlands Mesa. The scenario is a rapidly-growing wild fire in which responders will test Delta County Alerts (the new emergency notification system), simulate evacuation procedures, and practice structure protection techniques, traffic control, resource acquisition, and other elements of wild fire response. Residents within the exercise area can expect to receive additional information soon about how they can participate to earn a gift card. HFD is looking for residents who will allow firefighters to visit their property to evaluate it and develop a structure protection plan. We are also seeking individuals who are willing to evacuate their homes and check in at a simulated Evacuation Center for a short amount of time (15 minutes). Hotchkiss Fire and our partner agencies are doing this training in order to better serve our community.