Dog attack training exercise to ensure schools are “fully prepared”

South Wales Police conducted a training exercise which simulated a dog attack to help ensure schools are “fully prepared” for emergencies.

The exercise took place at Oakfield Primary School, St Mellons and was run along with the school and Cardiff Council.

In the scenario, two XL Bully dogs were on the loose in St. Mellons - both having attacked and injured two people, including the school caretaker.

The dog was now running around the school grounds.

The aim was to help improve the school, community and police response in the event of a major incident.

Officers coordinated the incident from the control room at Cardiff Bay police station, members from all partner organisations worked together to share real-time information and ensure a unified response.

Well-being dog Carter, from the police force, was on site with pupils throughout the exercise.

Chief superintendent Marc Attwell said: “This exercise was a great learning experience for us and has significantly improved our ability to respond to such an incident in the future, meaning that we will be able to keep people even safer."

Cllr Sarah Merry, Cardiff Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for education, said: “This exercise highlights the importance of schools being fully prepared for emergencies and the value of strong multi-agency partnerships.

“By working together in realistic scenarios, we ensure that every organisation - from police to schools and the local authority - can respond swiftly and effectively to protect our children and communities."