From staff reports Fort Sill will conduct a “Black Start” exercise from 4 a.m. to noon Sept. 10, to assess the installation’s energy resilience and emergency response capabilities.
The exercise will involve a planned power outage across the installation to test backup power systems and ensure mission readiness during unforeseen power disruptions.
The exercise originally was scheduled for March but was postponed because of competing mission requirements.
The exercise is a Department of Defense-mandated drill where external power sources are intentionally shut off to evaluate an installation’s ability to operate solely on backup energy systems. The primary objectives are to verify the performance of backup generators and validate continuity of operations plans.
“Maintaining a resilient and independent energy posture is vital to Fort Sill’s ability to support the warfighter and our community,” said Col. Derek R. Baird, Fort Sill’s garrison commander.
“This exercise allows us to rigorously test our systems and procedures, ensuring we’re prepared to continue critical operations even in the face of a complete power loss. We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of our Soldiers, families and civilian employees.”
Temporary power interruptions will occur during the event. Essential services, including emergency operations and critical facilities, will operate on backup power to minimize disruptions. Residents and employees are advised to take the following precautions:
• Preserve food: Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to maintain cold temperatures. A refrigerator can keep food cold for about four hours; a full freezer maintains its temperature for approximately 48 hours.
• Use generators safely: Operate generators only outdoors and away from windows to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Disconnect electronics: Unplug appliances and electronics to protect them from potential power surges when electricity is restored.
There will be no interruption to Freedom Elementary School’s daily operations. Power will be restored in time for a regular school day.
For updates and additional information during the exercise, monitor Fort Sill’s official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ officialftsill and utilize the My Army Post app, available for download in the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.