Our law enforcement officers must be prepared for anything, because while on duty, routine calls could quickly turn into life or death situations.

That's why continual training is so important, whether it's a rookie, or an officer with years of experience.

This week officers across West Virginia have been practicing their skills in Parkersburg. They came from Harrison County, Vienna, Martinsburg, Williamstown, and Berkeley County.

Many of those departments don't have SWAT Teams. George Young works in Vienna, one of those departments without a SWAT team.

"In light of stuff that's happening today in Maryland, it's great training and it's something every department should probably do," said Young.

Being prepared is key, but the hardest part for officials is never knowing just what kind of situation they'll find themselves in.

Parkersburg Police Chief Bob Newell said there is a method to training.

"When you go after someone methodically, like they do with the man power, it usually reduces the risk for somebody resisting with a fire arm," said Newell.

It's a method that's important when everyday life can be scary and uncertain.