Police hold training drill near Independence Mall

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- If you saw a large police presence on Independence Mall on Wednesday evening, don't be alarmed: it was only a drill.

Philadelphia Police, US Park Rangers and paramedics took over the Independence Visitor Center from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

The test drill - taking out an active shooter and helping the injured.

"In an emergency like this, what matters is time," said Chief Inspector Joe Sullivan, Philadelphia Police.

Blue Bell resident Henry Tofini, who works in the visitor center, had a front row seat for the beginning of the drill.

"They're all walking around, doing their simulated drills and so glad it was just a drill - wouldn't want it to be the real thing. But I'm glad they're looking out," said Tofini.

Officers from across the city streamed in, geared up and dodged simunition - non lethal bullets with blue dye - similar to paintball ammo.

But if hit, they come with a real sting.

"It's great to have plans, it's great to have equipment but none of that means anything unless you train with it frequently because the way you train is the way you will respond," said Chief Inspector Sullivan.

He says these exercises are needed more than ever with big events coming to Philadelphia.

The visit by Pope Francis in September and the Democratic National Convention next summer will both bring state and federal law enforcement.

"The City of Philadelphia will be in the world spotlight and that's why it's important that our training and our capabilities and our equipment be on the cutting edge and I can assure you here in Philadelphia they are," said Chief Inspector Sullivan.

The National Park Service invited Philadelphia Police to the mall for the four hour training exercise.

By coincidence, Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson happened to be in town Wednesday meeting with the mayor and police commissioner.

We're told they discussed security and planning for the DNC and Pope Francis' visit.