A simulation was carried out by the Sarnia Police Service at Lambton Mall this week.
Twelve members of the Emergency Response Team, in full gear and weapons drawn, practiced clearing the mall Wednesday.
Sarnia Police practice clearing Lambton Mall. April 12, 2017
Officers from the Criminal Investigations Branch and COPPS Unit were also involved.
Constable John Sottosanti says it's the first time a live exercise was conducted at the mall.
"This is intended for our emergency response team to firstly become familiar with the mall and its layout, and secondly, it gives them an opportunity to practice their skills in clearing various buildings after various responses," says Sottosanti.
No ammunition was on site and the drill was conducted before the mall was open.
Lambton Mall staff were notified that the exercise was going to take place.