FORT NELSON, B.C. - The scene Tuesday at the Northern Rockies Regional Airport looked at times as though it could be right out of a disaster movie. Emergency crews, airport staff and community volunteers took part in a large-scale exercise designed to test how the region would respond to a simulated aircraft emergency.
The full-scale emergency exercise was conducted as part of the airport’s Aerodrome Emergency Plan, or AEP, and is required by Transport Canada every four years.
The drills are designed to evaluate emergency preparedness, communication and coordination among the agencies that would respond in the event of a real-world aviation emergency.
Airport staff were joined by members of the Northern Rockies Fire Rescue, BC Ambulance Service and officials and with the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality Emergency Operations Centre.
Community volunteers also took part, portraying passengers and family members to help create realistic emergency conditions.
Officials say exercises like this allow responders to practice their roles and responsibilities in a controlled environment while identifying areas where improvements can be made.
The training also helps strengthen coordination between the various agencies that would be called upon during an actual emergency.
While the scenario was only a simulation, organizers say the exercise provided valuable experience for everyone involved and helped ensure the community remains prepared should a real incident occur.
The airport thanked all participants and volunteers who contributed to the exercise.