From terrorist activities to natural disasters, from bombs to floods, a major emergency would require all the emergency services and other agencies to be prepared and able to deal with the ensuing problems.

Avon and Somerset Constabulary, together with our partners across the force, country and the international community, continually plan and exercise for all manner of major emergencies.

Our plans for dealing with major emergencies are regularly reviewed and updated to ensure that in the event of an emergency the training and skills needed to deal with it are up-to-date and as relevant as possible.

Key locations across the force have specific plans, for example, Bristol Airport, the Severn Tunnel, the Severn Crossings, Hinckley Point and Oldbury Power Stations .

'Practice makes perfect'

The force also takes part in major emergency exercises throughout the year both 'live-play' and table-top in conjunction with the other emergency services and Local Resilience Forum. These test all different aspects of a major emergency from response times to body recovery, communications, media services and many more.

What does the future hold?

The force will use the lessons learnt from the exercise and training programme throughout the year to review and improve the major emergency plans in order that if such an event occurs, the public of Avon and Somerset will get a well prepared and effective response.