By Allison Ogorek
Orchard Park, NY – The Buffalo Bills and local law enforcement agencies gathered at Ralph Wilson Stadium Thursday for a simulated "table top" emergency exercise.
Bills President and General Manager Tom Donahoe said the drill was designed to help the team and emergency crews prepare for any problem that may arise at the stadium.
"There's no question that since September 11th, there's a heightened awareness in dealing with security issues, and I think today is just a perfect example of that," Donahoe said. "We don't anticipate problems, we're not looking for problems, but if something should occur, we want our fans to realize that we'll be prepared, and ready to deal with any situation."
The exercise was coordinated by the Erie County Local Emergency Planning Committee. County Executive Joel Giambra said that the exercise provided valuable experience for emergency response teams.
"We're trying to, in Erie County, be as prepared as possible for any type of disaster that may occur, whether it's a natural disaster or manmade," Giambra said. "And we think we've got one of the most effective responses in place. It's a regional response, and it is unfortunate that we have to be here today, even having this particular drill.
"But again, we believe it's better to be safe than sorry."