Vernon Regional Airport (photo courtesy of the City of Vernon)

By Liam Verster

Table-Top Training

First responders review plane crash response at Vernon airport

Dec 15, 2022 | 2:15 PM

The Vernon Regional Airport hosted a simulated plane crash response on Wednesday (Dec. 14).

Vernon North Okanagan RCMP, B.C. Emergency Health Services, Vernon Fire Rescue Services and City of Vernon staff participated in the imaginary incident.

“This table-top exercise is a good opportunity for all the responding agencies to get together to work through the City’s Airport Emergency Response Plan. An incident such as a plane crash could require the involvement of all these agencies,” Curtis Linton, airport supervisor, said.

“These practice scenarios help familiarize all agencies with the airport protocols and they support our regulatory requirement to hold a table-top exercise annually, and a major practice scenario once every four years. I think everyone comes away with a good refresher on dealing with aircraft incidents and each time we learn something new,” Linton added.

As Vernon faces seasonal threats of flooding and wildfires, the exercise is held in the winter when there are less pressing concerns for emergency responders.

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“Conducting table-top exercises provides us with an opportunity to practice executing emergency plans together,” said Deputy Fire Chief Alan Hofsink.

“We build relationships with a number of agencies, identify gaps in emergency response plans and make adjustments in a safe environment. These are important tools in emergency management.”