Emergency services from various regions recently convened at Cotswold Airport for an extensive three-day training session aimed at refining their response to significant incidents. Led by Avon Fire & Rescue Service (AF&RS) in collaboration with firefighters from Avon, Gloucestershire, Dorset & Wiltshire, West Midlands, and Hereford & Worcester Fire & Rescue Service, alongside Cotswold Airport personnel, the exercise simulated various scenarios, including a plane crash, a terrorist attack, and other critical situations.
Facilitated by Cotswold Airport and Air Salvage International, the event offered emergency responders the opportunity to simulate their reactions to complex and demanding scenarios. Challenges included managing casualties, uncovering an identified device, and dealing with a suspected nerve agent presence.
Participating were key stakeholders such as police, ambulance services, and military personnel, with support from the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL), which contributed its expertise to the exercise. Police declared Operation Plato and Operation Tapestry, seldom-activated procedures, in response to the simulated terrorist attacks, highlighting the gravity of the event.
A spokesperson from Hicks Gate Fire Station stressed the importance of the training, stating, “This exercise provides a valuable opportunity for Urban Search and Rescue, firefighters, paramedics, police, military, and facilitators to test their response to a major incident involving aircraft. While we hope never to face such a dire situation, it’s crucial to practice our response and collaboration with other agencies.”
Volunteers from the Casualties Union and students from Hartpury College added realism to the exercise by assuming victim roles. Additionally, the Rapid Relief Team, a charity dedicated to emergency relief, provided support and refreshments throughout the event.
Expressing gratitude for the collaborative effort, the spokesperson said, “I extend my thanks to all involved in planning, preparing, and facilitating this exercise. It’s been three years in the making to ensure ample opportunity for everyone to apply their skills to different scenarios, and it has been successful.”
An Area Manager for the local Fire and Rescue Service echoed these sentiments, highlighting the exercise’s value in fostering collaboration and readiness. “This exercise allows us to work closely with other services, partners, and organisations and ensures our readiness for significant incidents,” they noted.
The Area Manager underscored the importance of simulated incidents in preparing responders for real-life scenarios, ensuring effective responses when needed. “Extensive training and collaboration with partners enable us to deliver the highest level of emergency response to our communities,” they concluded.
The exercise at Cotswold Airport underscores emergency services’ commitment to preparedness and collaboration, crucial elements in safeguarding communities and responding effectively to unforeseen challenges. Such training initiatives enhance responders’ capabilities, contributing to society’s resilience and safety.
