Alongside the lifeguard brigade, fire department, Royal Marechaussee, Royal Dutch Rescue Society, and the police, FireWare organized a multidisciplinary exercise in Groote Keeten at the end of July. From broken limbs to unconscious victims, everyone was involved in this large-scale exercise. As many emergency services as possible collaborated to assist the victims of a fictitious gas explosion.
The Scenario
On Friday evening, August 4th, the major multidisciplinary exercise took place in Groote Keeten. The scenario simulated a gas explosion during an annual anniversary party. You guessed it, the barbecue. Many victims were affected, and various emergency services worked together to rescue people. For instance, there was a young woman on the ground with a broken leg and a man who was close to the barbecue when it exploded, inhaling a lot of smoke and sustaining facial burns.
The Wild Dune Exercise
The lifeguard brigade, fire department, Royal Marechaussee, Royal Dutch Rescue Society, and the police had their work cut out for them. The focus during this exercise was particularly on the collaboration between the different emergency services. They had to ensure the safety of the (LOTUS) victims, treat their injuries, and extinguish the fire that followed the explosion. This covered all aspects of an emergency situation and was practiced thoroughly. Quite a task with around 30 victims. But at least the emergency services are well-prepared if it ever happens for real.
Choice of Scenario and Staging
No expenses or efforts were spared to make the entire scenario as realistic as possible. The explosion was simulated using the Electronic Explosion Simulator V2. The source of the fire was a combination of the Stratus and Cumulus smoke generators, together with FireSpots and Phoenix Silkflames for enhancing the simulation. The presence of 'real' victims added to the authenticity. The (LOTUS) victims, trained by The Orange Cross, were briefed about the situation and their individual injuries. Genuine fake tears were shed, there was panic, and above all, there was an explosion with a fire.
Feeling explosively enthusiastic? Take a quick look at our portfolio to see the various simulations FireWare has created!
