A full field mock emergency tested the resources of a number of agencies on September 25, 2018 in Alnwick/Haldimand Township.
The township, along with Alderville First Nation, Northumberland County and community partners held the exercise involving a forest fire in Northumberland County Forest just off Beagle Club Road.
There were people who became lost and some were injured. It was the job of area fire departments to find the victims and transport them to safety.
Every fire service in Northumberland County was involved in the exercise along with Northumberland OPP, Northumberland County Paramedics, St. John Ambulance, and OCEAP (Ontario Community Emergency Assistance Program).
It was believed the simulated fire was started by a lightning strike which seemed perfect for the day as there was a steady rain throughout the entire event.
While emergency services were battling the fire a simulated multi-vehicle crash shut down Highway 401.
One of the main focuses of the exercise was to set up the Emergency Operation Centres. Both Alnwick/Haldimand Township and Northumberland county had their prespective EOC’s set-up for the exercise.
“This gave staff an opportunity to practice their rolls in the EOC,” said Alnwick/Haldimand Fire Chief Mark Diminie.
“This type of training is invaluable. As we have recently witnessed in the Ottawa area we are not immune to emergencies or disasters.”
At any major event, a press conference would be held to update the public of the progress of fire suppression and to give an update of conditions along Highway 401.
The press conference for this exercise was held at the Grafton Village Inn with various agencies on site to answer questions.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
