In celebration of National Youth Service Day, the Metropolitan Police Department’s Fifth District and the Neighbors of Seaton Place community organization will hold an emergency disaster drill on Saturday, April 21, 2007 from Noon to 4 PM at the Harry Thomas Recreation Center in Ward 5.

Tomorrow’s drills and events include a hazardous materials evacuation and response, a decontamination unit, and a mobile firehouse training exercise. Children will also be invited to participate in a scavenger hunt, in which they may accumulate points toward prizes.

“It’s never too soon to learn disaster preparedness skills. Community members of all ages should know what to do in the event of an emergency,” said Captain Melvin Scott of Police Service Area 501.

“The emergency drill is designed to foster a sense of responsibility in all of our residents so they will have knowledge and experience in the proper response techniques for various situations. The lives they save could very well be their own,” said Cleopatra Jones, an Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner for the area.

Participating agencies include the DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department, the DC Emergency Management Agency, ServeDC, the DC Department of Parks and Recreation, and the Metropolitan Police Department. The Harry Thomas Recreation Center is located at 1743 Lincoln Road, NE.

For more information, contact Captain Melvin Scott at (202) 698-0121 or Cleopatra Jones at (202) 234-5399.