Idaho Office of Emergency Management to Conduct Full-Scale HazMat Exercise in Weiser

BOISE, ID – The Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM), in coordination with Payette and Washington counties, will conduct a full-scale hazardous materials (HazMat) exercise on Friday, June 13, 2025, in Weiser, Idaho. The exercise will begin at 8 a.m. and is expected to conclude by 5 p.m. Activities will take place at multiple locations throughout Weiser, including the Vendome Event Center, Weiser High School, and the Amalgamated Sugar Company.

The exercise is part of IOEM’s ongoing commitment to strengthening emergency preparedness and response capabilities throughout the state. It aligns with the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) National Preparedness Goal, which emphasizes building and sustaining core capabilities to prevent, protect against, mitigate, respond to, and recover from all hazards.

Residents and visitors in the Weiser area may notice the following during the exercise:

• A visible presence of emergency vehicles and personnel throughout the community
• Simulated smoke used as part of the exercise scenario
• Clear signage posted near the exercise area indicating “Emergency Training in Progress

No real hazardous materials will be used or released during the training. There is no threat to public health or safety.

This full-scale exercise provides first responders with a valuable opportunity to test and evaluate response protocols in a realistic, controlled setting. It also helps enhance coordination and communication between local and state agencies.

The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is part of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The women and men of this Division are dedicated to their mission of protecting the lives and property of the people of Idaho, as well as preserving the environmental and the economic health of Idaho.