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The Covington County Emergency Management Agency held a countywide emergency exercise on May 1 at the South Alabama Regional Airport.

The event brought together various agencies from across the county, including fire departments, law enforcement, EMS, utility personnel, as well as volunteers for a day of hands-on training in simulated disaster scenarios. The training focused on key areas such as hazmat, building searches, mass triage, incident command, and utility hazards.

Those participating included Covington County E911, Advanced EMS, Covington County Sheriff’s Office, Opp fire and police departments, Andalusia fire and police departments, and the Sanford Volunteer Fire Department.

Covington County EMA Director Susan Harris said she appreciated those who participated in the training, including those who served as evaluators. Those serving in that capacity included: Opp Fire Chief Cory Spurlin, hazmat; CCSO Capt. Alan Syler, building search; County Commission Chairman Michael Smith, paramedics response; Troy Fire Chief Curtis Shaver, fire department response; Opp Police Chief Kevin Chance, incident command; Opp Assistant Police Chief David Harrell, law enforcement response; Gantt Police Chief Ken Harris, safety officer; and Ross Parker of Covington Electric Cooperative, vehicle and power pole incidents.

“Our goal is simple — ensure Covington County is better prepared to protect our citizens,” Harris said. “This training helps us do just that.”

Also participating was Baynard Ward and PowerSouth, which hosted planning meetings and provided meals. Covington Electric Cooperative offered power pole safety training with support of Jason Saunders and Steven Driggers. Wayne Godwin and LBW provided volunteers and SARA Executive Director Jed Blackwell allowed for the event to be held at the airport.

Harris also thanked Andalusia Manor, Andalusia Health, and Mizell Memorial Hospital for its support and involvement in the 2025 countywide emergency exercise. “Their participation and partnership were critical in helping us carry out a comprehensive and realistic training event,” Harris said.