A Major Emergency Response Exercise Reinforces Cooperation

A simulated explosion and a smoking aircraft gave the signal for all emergency response personnel at 19 Wing and the Comox Valley Airport that a major exercise was underway. The exercise was organized to validate both organizations' emergency response procedures but also to reinforce the cooperation with other emergency responders like BC Ambulance, the Provincial Emergency Program and 911 services.

"The scenario is simulating an act of terrorism onboard a civilian aircraft", said Major Shawn Duffy, Coordinator of the exercise. "The scenario was conceived in a way to require the participation of a maximum number of emergency personnel. Our focus was to simulate the cooperation that would be necessary during a crisis; from the first responders like the fire fighters and the police, all the way to medical staff and the support personnel for the victims and their family. With the help of many volunteers, we strived to emulate the chaos of such disasters; we tried to overwhelm the responders."

"We are hopeful that the skills learned through these exercises are never put to the test; however, it is very comforting knowing that we have practiced our response and can work effectively with the Wing and the community support agencies", said Alex Robertson, Airport Deputy Operations Manager.

The exercise included the use of a CC-115 Buffalo that simulated a commercial aircraft, pyrotechnics and smoke machines. It also involved dozen of participants to act as victims and family members. "We have to train for the worst possible scenarios," said Duffy, "only then our members will be confident in their skills and knowledgeable in other organizations' involvement to be able to face real crisis."

written by Lt. A. Cadieux
PAO 19 Wing Comox