ELKHART, Ind. -- The Elkhart Fire Department is asking motorists to avoid the area around the Botanical Center at 921 N. Main St. Wednesday morning while crews conduct a full-scale hazmat training exercise.

The scenario involves a simulated chlorine leak with potential victims and multiple responding companies, including South Bend Firefighters Local 362 Hazmat Team, the Cleveland Township Fire Department, and Osolo Township Fire Department medics.

Elkhart General Hospital is also involved in the training.

Fire officials say the drill is designed to be as realistic as possible to ensure crews are fully prepared for real-world emergencies to better serve citizens.