Parts Of Liberty Tunnel Shut Down For Emergency Fire Exercise

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- Parts of the Liberty Tunnel are closed today to give first responders the chance to practice an emergency fire exercise.

Both inbound lanes will remain closed until noon, along with one outbound lane.

PennDOT, the Pittsburgh Fire Bureau, Homeland Security and other first responders will train for what to do if there's a major fire.

"We've been fortunate we haven't had any incidents," said Chief Daryl Jones of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire. "But we want to be prepared for when that happens."

Three drills will be conducted, but officials are not saying what will exactly take place, for a reason.

They did say the drills will focus on access, water and communication.

"The scenarios, we're keeping that close to our chest," Jones said. "Want the boots on the ground, no forewarning ... and see how they perform under those conditions."