FERNDALE, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Ferndale residents may notice some unusual commotion this month, but there’s no cause for concern.

The Ferndale Police Department (FPD) says it’s conducting a series of emergency response training exercises with Whatcom County Fire District 7 this month at Johnstone Supply on W Smith Road.

During the trainings, residents may notice increased police, fire and EMS presence along with simulated gunfire from blank ammunition.

FPD is asking the community to avoid the training property and keep all parking lot entrances and exits clear.

The training exercises start on Thursday, Nov. 5, and will continue to take place on Thursdays through Nov. 19. They start in the late afternoon or early evening and wrap up around 8:30 p.m.

The exercises are designed to strengthen coordination between law enforcement and emergency medical personnel in the event of a mass casualty incident.

Officers from the Blaine, Sumas and Everson police departments may also participate.