The City of Campbell River and emergency response partners successfully completed an emergency training exercise at the Campbell River Airport (YBL) on October 14.
The exercise brought together airport personnel, City staff, emergency responders and partner agencies to practice a coordinated response to a simulated emergency. A simulated Emergency Operations Centre was also activated to support response activities and test communication, coordination and decision-making processes.
The exercise involved a range of agencies and organizations, including BC Emergency Health Services, Health Emergency Management BC, RCMP, NAV CANADA, the Strathcona Regional District, local airlines including Pacific Coastal and WestJet, Executive Aviation, BC Wildfire Service, BC Transit, and BC Coroner Service, Holistic Emergency Preparedness and Response, Campbell River Fire Department and airport staff. The City thanks all participating agencies, volunteers, and partners for their collaboration and commitment to strengthening emergency preparedness in the region.
“Regular training exercises are an important part of maintaining emergency preparedness at the Campbell River Airport,” said Dennis Brodie, Airport Manager. “These exercises allow airport staff and emergency response partners to test plans, strengthen coordination and identify opportunities for improvement before a real emergency occurs. We appreciate the participation and commitment of all agencies and organizations that took part in making this exercise a success.”
The training exercise is a requirement of the airport's certification through Transport Canada and forms part of ongoing efforts to maintain a high level of emergency readiness. It is funded through the Union of BC Municipalities Community Emergency Preparedness Fund. Participants will now review the exercise and identify lessons learned to help refine emergency plans, procedures and coordination among partner agencies.
The City also used Alertable, its emergency notification system, to advise residents about the exercise before activities began. Residents are encouraged to register for Alertable to receive notifications about emergencies and other important public safety information.
To learn more about City emergency planning, visit campbellriver.ca/emergencies. To learn more about the Campbell River Airport, visit crairport.ca.
Contact: Dennis Brodie, Airport Manager | 250-923-5012 | Dennis.Brodie@campbellriver.ca
