Special forces have alerted 21 North Carolina counties of special training "urban warfare" exercises that might feature "simulated bombs and gunfire," according to The Charlotte Observer.
The exercises are known as Robin Sage training, featuring hostile engagements between Special Forces students, Fort Bragg soldiers and civilian volunteers. They are intended to simulate "realistic opposing forces and guerrilla freedom fighters," according to an official release.
"Residents may hear blank gunfire and see occasional flares," according to officials, per the report. "Controls are in place to ensure there is no risk to persons or property.
"Residents with concerns should contact local law enforcement officials, who will immediately contact exercise control officials."
One soldier was killed and another wounded in 2002 when a Moore County deputy mistook a Robin Sage training exercise for criminal activity, so advance notice is now required to alert the public and local law enforcement, according to the Observer.
A Fort Bragg exercise in 1997 also caused public panic in Charlotte, per the report.
The exercises will run Aug. 30 through Sept. 12, according to the U.S. Special Forces, in the following counties: Alamance, Anson, Cabarrus, Chatham, Cumberland, Davidson, Davie, Guilford, Harnett, Hoke, Lee, Montgomery, Moore, Randolph, Richmond, Robeson, Rowan, Scotland, Stanly, Union, and Wake counties.
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