Nova Scotia Health is committed to the safety of its patients, staff and visitors.
Between November 2025 and February 2026, a series of planned Code Silver emergency exercises will take place in hospitals throughout the Central Zone.
These exercises are essential for ensuring our staff are prepared to respond calmly and effectively in the event of a real threat involving a weapon. By practising these scenarios, we strengthen our emergency response, improve coordination and reinforce our commitment to safety.
Please note the following locations and dates (subject to change):
What to expect if you are present and witness an exercise:
Notice of an exercise will be provided to patients in advance; it will also be clearly posted on units for visitors.
Actors will be present, wearing neon yellow vests and carrying toy weapons to simulate a threatening scenario. Angry shouting may be heard from the actors during the drill, however there will be no physical contact between actors and staff.
Evaluators and observers will wear neon, high-visibility vests and are available to address any safety concerns.
Overhead announcements will clearly state when a Code Silver exercise is in progress, so everyone is aware this is a drill.
While these exercises may cause some uncertainty or anxiety for patients and visitors, please be assured:
All actors and evaluators will be clearly identifiable.
There is no cause for alarm—these are strictly controlled practice drills.
If you feel uncomfortable or anxious, please speak with your healthcare provider or hospital staff for support.
Thank you for your understanding and co-operation as we work together to maintain a safe environment for everyone.
General Interests
Health And Wellness
Between November 2025 and February 2026, a series of planned Code Silver emergency exercises will take place in hospitals throughout the Central Zone
**** NSHA Release
Nova Scotia Health holding mock emergency exercises in Central Zone
Nova Scotia Health is committed to the safety of its patients, staff and visitors.
Between November 2025 and February 2026, a series of planned Code Silver emergency exercises will take place in hospitals throughout the Central Zone.
These exercises are essential for ensuring our staff are prepared to respond calmly and effectively in the event of a real threat involving a weapon. By practising these scenarios, we strengthen our emergency response, improve coordination and reinforce our commitment to safety.
Please note the following locations and dates (subject to change):
What to expect if you are present and witness an exercise:
Notice of an exercise will be provided to patients in advance; it will also be clearly posted on units for visitors.
Actors will be present, wearing neon yellow vests and carrying toy weapons to simulate a threatening scenario. Angry shouting may be heard from the actors during the drill, however there will be no physical contact between actors and staff.
Evaluators and observers will wear neon, high-visibility vests and are available to address any safety concerns.
Overhead announcements will clearly state when a Code Silver exercise is in progress, so everyone is aware this is a drill.
While these exercises may cause some uncertainty or anxiety for patients and visitors, please be assured:
All actors and evaluators will be clearly identifiable.
There is no cause for alarm—these are strictly controlled practice drills.
If you feel uncomfortable or anxious, please speak with your healthcare provider or hospital staff for support.
Thank you for your understanding and co-operation as we work together to maintain a safe environment for everyone.
Nova Scotia Health is committed to the safety of its patients, staff and visitors.
Between November 2025 and February 2026, a series of planned Code Silver emergency exercises will take place in hospitals throughout the Central Zone.
These exercises are essential for ensuring our staff are prepared to respond calmly and effectively in the event of a real threat involving a weapon. By practising these scenarios, we strengthen our emergency response, improve coordination and reinforce our commitment to safety.
Please note the following locations and dates (subject to change):
What to expect if you are present and witness an exercise:
Notice of an exercise will be provided to patients in advance; it will also be clearly posted on units for visitors.
Actors will be present, wearing neon yellow vests and carrying toy weapons to simulate a threatening scenario. Angry shouting may be heard from the actors during the drill, however there will be no physical contact between actors and staff.
Evaluators and observers will wear neon, high-visibility vests and are available to address any safety concerns.
Overhead announcements will clearly state when a Code Silver exercise is in progress, so everyone is aware this is a drill.
While these exercises may cause some uncertainty or anxiety for patients and visitors, please be assured:
All actors and evaluators will be clearly identifiable.
There is no cause for alarm—these are strictly controlled practice drills.
If you feel uncomfortable or anxious, please speak with your healthcare provider or hospital staff for support.
Thank you for your understanding and co-operation as we work together to maintain a safe environment for everyone.
