Media Alert: Second Annual Microsoft Emergency Response Exercise Helps Increase Readiness of Public and Private Groups

REDMOND, Wash. — May 11, 2005 — On Thursday, May 12, Microsoft Corp. will collaborate with the city of Redmond fire and police departments, 911 dispatch centers, and other local agencies to conduct an emergency preparedness training exercise to help ensure that in the event of an emergency the local community can respond in the most coordinated and effective manner.

“This exercise is a great way for Microsoft to evaluate how it can support our local responders during an emergency,” said Mike Huber, general manager for Corporate Services and crisis manager for Microsoft. “In addition to helping facilitate improved coordination between Microsoft and local agencies, it gives us an opportunity to test internal plans for evacuation plans, communication coordination and other key issues.”

“Exercises like these are a great opportunity for public safety agencies to exercise response plans and identify areas for improvement. The interaction between public and private entities builds the relationships that are critical during emergency responses,” said Lt. Tom Langton of the Redmond Fire Department.

The exercise is designed to help accomplish three main objectives: Assist the city of Redmond and Microsoft in evaluating and refining emergency coordination; strengthen Microsoft’s alliance with local responder agencies to help ensure a safe, efficient and quick response to the Microsoft® community and neighbors; and fulfill a city of Redmond and Microsoft annual exercise requirement.

“We’re very happy to be a part of this exercise once again this year, because it helps ensure improved coordination between the various groups involved,” said Officer Stacey Holland of the Redmond Police Department. “The scenario we are playing out this year gives us the opportunity to evaluate closely how well our plans and procedures work in a real-world situation, so we can make adjustments now that will help improve the safety of many later.”

Microsoft has conducted various joint exercises with organizations including the Redmond police and fire departments. This exercise is being done on a larger scale for the second consecutive year.

What: Joint Microsoft and city of Redmond emergency response training exercise

Where: Microsoft campus, buildings 11, 24 and 26, Located off Microsoft Way between NE 36th and NE 31st, Redmond, Wash.

When: Thursday, May 12, 3:30 p.m. PDT

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