PETERSBURG, Va. (AP) — Fort Lee is testing security guards’ proficiency in closing the installation’s gates during emergencies.

A series of gate closures began Saturday and will continue through June 30. Each closure is expected to last no more than 10 minutes.

Director of emergency services Tony DeWitt says in a news release that security guards must follow processes and procedures to secure the base quickly and safely.

DeWitt says validating the guards’ proficiency in closing the gates has become more crucial due to recent events at other military installations. These events include shootings at Naval Station Norfolk, Fort Hood, Texas, and the Washington Navy Yard.

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