Residents in Newkirk are concerned as the Department of Homeland Security plans to simulate the effects of biological weapons on buildings just outside of the city. In a statement, the agency said they will be releasing non-hazardous, non-toxic chemicals and biological materials at the Chilocco Indian School. The study is part of the department’s ongoing commitment to preparedness, officials say. Kyle Oestmenn lives less than half a mile away from the school.
He said he just found out about the tests Thursday on social media. “You would think you would let your neighbors know,” Kyle Oestmenn told KOCO. “Hopefully they stop by and let me know at least.” According to the agency, they will be testing the impact on buildings if a terrorist were to release a biological weapon. News of the testing spread fast after DHS paid for a legal notice in the local paper. READ MORE
