West Midlands Hospital Patients Warned of 'Shouting and Loud Noises' Next Week
Patients attending a West Midlands hospital have been warned to expect shouting and loud noises next week. Walsall Manor Hospital announced it will carry out an emergency response test exercise on Wednesday, June 24. A number of agencies will be involved in the drill.
A hospital spokesperson explained that the exercise aims to test its emergency response plans and procedures in the event of a major incident. The activity will be concentrated in the hospital's main atrium. There will be an increased presence of emergency services around the hospital, and patients may hear shouting and loud noise.
Staff in high-visibility clothing will be on hand to reassure members of the public. Healthcare services will run as normal for patients. The hospital stressed that the exercise is not linked to any intelligence or an increased threat to the hospital or the area.
Liam Ferris, Head of EPRR at Walsall Healthcare, said: 'Exercises like this are an important part of ensuring we are prepared to respond effectively to a wide range of incidents. They allow us to test our plans, strengthen partnership working with emergency services and other agencies, and identify any areas where we can improve.'
He added: 'We would like to thank patients, visitors and local residents for their understanding while the exercise takes place and reassure them the hospital and its services will continue to operate as usual at this time. A huge thank you also goes to the volunteers and staff who will be giving up their time to take part.'
The exercise will take place between 8pm and 4am.
