Emergency services swarmed the University of Otago yesterday as part of an exercise in emergency preparedness.
The university campus was transformed into a mock crime scene, with police, St John and Fire and Emergency New Zealand using the space to test their response to a large crime involving many fatalities.
University of Otago emergency and business continuity co-ordinator Andrew Ferguson said the event was held because of the importance of practising for any possible emergency that might occur on the university campus.
About 120 people were involved in the exercise, he said.
The man got out of the car wielding a knife but was apprehended by police.
Police, St John and Fenz responded as quickly as possible, locking down the scene and assessing victims.
Mr Ferguson said the feedback he received indicated the event was successful.
‘‘People said it was very realistic and I think both emergency services and the university got a lot out of it.
‘‘It is important that we train with emergency services annually to ensure that we can work effectively together and address any issues that arise.’’
Firefighter Simon Greenall, who played the criminal in the exercise, said he had played a role in previous years’ drills.
‘‘It’s always interesting and great experience in emergency events and how to deal with them.
‘‘I’m just waiting for my Shortland Street casting call now.’’
