General Description
Dakota County will be conducting a public safety exercise on Friday, September 25 in Burnsville, MN. The main goal of the exercise is to provide realistic training scenarios to local law enforcement, fire and EMS agencies. We are looking for volunteers to participate as role players in various emergency scenarios to give public safety agencies and their staff practical training opportunities that can later be utilized in the field.
This year, we are offering three different times to volunteer. You can choose one shift or stay for the whole day. You must pre-register online before the event with Better Impact. Individuals will be required to sign a separate participation agreement form prior to being allowed into the venue. Please sign-up ASAP as spots to participate tend to fill up quickly.
- DISCLAIMER: This event will include intense, life-like scenarios that include simulated violence, simulated blood and actions that may be considered graphic in nature. Participation discretion is advised. With that being said, you will be able to sit out of any scenario that you find too intense or uncomfortable.
Location
The training will take place in Burnsville, MN. More detailed information will be emailed to registered participants approximately one week prior to the exercise. You must pre-register so that the location will be sent to you via email before the event.
Date
Friday, September 25, 2026
Shifts
- Block 1: 8:00am – 11:30am
- Block 2: 1:00pm – 4:30pm
- Block 3: 6:00pm – 9:30pm
Duties & Responsibilities
- Provide realistic scenarios to law enforcement, fire and EMS agencies.
- Thoroughly listen and create the environment and situations that our event controllers ask for you to create and assist with.
- No use of force will be used during the training.
Minimum Qualifications
- Must be able to make it to the facility 15 minutes prior to check in time. You must stay for the entirety of the time slot(s) you have selected. You will not be able to leave midway through a scenario.
- Must be at least 16 years old or older. You must have a signed parental release form if under 18 years old.
- You will not be able to use or have access to your cell phone during the event.
- Must be able to follow and listen to directions thoroughly.
- Must be able to remain calm, collected and patient in high stress environments.
- Reenactment experience is welcomed, but not required.
Minimum Time Commitment
Each scenario shift will be 3.5 hours. Break times serving food and beverages will be included during the event.
Activity Level
Active - Involves physical exertion for an extended period of time; can involve rough, uneven or steep terrain. Not recommended for volunteers with physical limitations.
Required Training
No training is required beforehand. Participants will be instructed on what to do prior to and during the event. Controllers will be onsite to answer questions and direct volunteers throughout the evening.
Contact Information
If you have any additional questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. We appreciate everyone that would like to join us for the exercise. It will be a great opportunity to assist our first responders in training.
Shayleigh O’Hanlon
Emergency Management Specialist
651-438-8302
