SIDNEY — The Sidney Police Department is notifying the public of a scheduled training exercise set for Friday evening, May 8, at West Elementary school.

The exercise is intended to provide officers with hands-on training in a realistic school setting. The department said the drill will involve the use of simunitions, a type of non-lethal training ammunition designed to simulate real-world scenarios.

Chief Sam Lovato emphasized there's no threat to the public and the exercise is strictly a training session. The Sidney Police Department extended its thanks to the Sidney Public Schools for their support and for granting access to the facility.

“This type of training helps our officers become more familiar with school layouts and allows us to be better prepared to ensure the safety of our students and staff,” Lovato said.

Residents should not be alarmed by an increased police presence in the area Friday night and are encouraged to share this information to prevent unnecessary concern.