State Preparedness Training Center In Oriskany Hosts ‘Excelsior Challenge’ [VIDEO]

Bomb squads, explosive detection teams and tactical teams from across the state are at the State Preparedness Training Center in Oriskany this week.

They're taking part in the Excelsior Challenge.

The training exercise is part of the State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services' effort to increase coordination and intergration among law enforcement agencies.

First responders get to test their capabilities in real-word scenarios on the grounds of the training center, including at CityScape.  CityScape is used for indoor and outdoor training and includes retail stores, a bank, a high school and an interior shopping mall.

Over 100 bomb technicians, canine handlers and tactical team officers from across the state are taking part in the three-day event.