Commissioned by Waterschap Hollandse Delta, FireWare developed a training program for the dike watch organization’s training week. Over six days, 360 dike watchers, post leaders, and operators participated in a program designed to refresh and enhance their knowledge and skills.
Essential volunteers protecting our dikes
The dike watch organization monitors our dikes when necessary. Before and after storms or extreme high water, this volunteer army inspects the dikes. They are the eyes and ears of the water board, making them a crucial link in ensuring our safety. A great reason to be thankful, and to offer them a valuable training day to keep their knowledge and skills at a high level.
Training on the island of Tiengemeten
The island of Tiengemeten in the Haringvliet was the location for this large-scale exercise. Tiengemeten is owned by Natuurmonumenten. Before the island was returned to nature, it was actively farmed. The dikes were used to keep the fields dry. Today, the dikes no longer serve a purpose, and in some areas, they have been intentionally removed. Nature has taken over, making Tiengemeten a beautiful training ground. Natuurmonumenten gave Waterschap Hollandse Delta and FireWare full access to set up the exercises, with an 8-kilometer route plotted through this scenic area.
Challenging exercises in a natural environment
Along the route, participants encountered ten different exercises, ranging from identifying, mapping, and reporting damages to team-based radio communication training. The water safety exercise, where the function of the life vest was demonstrated, and participants had to throw a lifebuoy at a target in the water, was also well received.
Practical knowledge
At the central location, several presentations were given. Topics included: “How does it work when you’re called up?”, “How is the water board organization structured?”, “What personal protective equipment do you receive?”, and “How do you report damages if you come across something unusual outside of dike watch duty?” These presentations were not only informative but also filled the waiting time for groups departing later or finishing early.
Central exercise
Previously, the training of the dike watch organization was the responsibility of the individual posts. They remain important, but the water board had a great need for a centralized training program. This training week was the first time such a large-scale event was organized. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive from both participants and staff, and everyone agreed this should become an annual event.
Successful collaboration
For FireWare, this was the first collaboration with a water board, a completely different field from the emergency services we are familiar with. However, our approach to tackling training challenges and designing exercise solutions worked excellently here as well. Together with the water board, we developed a competency matrix that detailed all the competencies a dike watcher should know or be able to perform to fulfill their duties properly. After thorough research of available training materials and several interviews, we identified over 300 competencies. Based on this matrix, we set priorities, focusing on safety and physical fitness. FireWare then used its expertise in realistic staging and gamification to create a program that was integrated into a walking route.
Analog solutions proved their worth
This time, we left digital solutions behind. In the rain on the dike, analog solutions worked better – and that made it no less fun!
An unforgettable day
In addition to being a productive day, it was also meant to give the volunteers a wonderful experience. With a good lunch, a closing drink, and the beautiful surroundings, this goal was more than achieved.
Thanks to all parties
FireWare thanks the water board for the excellent cooperation! A big thanks also to Natuurmonumenten for their support and the opportunities they provided. This was a fantastic project to work on. We look forward to more!
