A new partnership is helping Millcreek Police prepare for emergency situations.

Members of the Millcreek SWAT team on Thursday conducted a training exercise at a home on Cherry St. and W. Gore Rd.

Officers involved practiced building entry and room clearing.

The property was recently acquired by the Erie County Land Bank.

The properties are now a new option for police, helping them prepare for hostage situations.

"It's extremely important," said Capt. Carter Mook, Millcreek Township Police. "When our swat team gets called out, it's a high-pressure, high-intensity situation. Training ahead of time and being prepared for those situations is of the most importance."

The SWAT team trains every month. This is the second time they used a Land Bank property.