MT. VERNON – The Mt. Vernon Fire Department in partnership with the Illinois Army National Guard Firefighting Teams will hold a scheduled training exercise between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Saturday in the area of 714 S. 42nd St.

The training will take place at Fire Station 4 and will involve controlled burns. Officials say this is an important opportunity for firefighters to strengthen their skills and preparedness.

There is no cause for alarm. Smoke will be visible in the area between Steffy’s and GenFed during the training period.