The normally tranquil setting of Half Moon Bay in Hazelwood was a hive of activity on Saturday 8th April as Sligo Civil Defence and Order of Malta, Sligo joined forces to host a ‘Major Response Exercise.’
Civil Defence Officer Marion Davis explained: ‘This was a very important exercise on a number of fronts. First and foremost, it allowed Civil Defence and Order of Malta to get to know each other to allow both groups the opportunity to work together to assist, treat and remove casualties. By combining exercises like this in a simulated way, it is felt that whenever an emergency situation arises and we are both called to assist we will be more aware of what each group has to offer in terms of skills and equipment. Hosting this exercise will also ensure we will be familiar with our respective personnel and procedures, and thus will be able to communicate more effectively in an emergency situation’.
In the week leading up to the exercise, the weather was closely monitored and the forecasters were predicting inclement weather. However Saturday dawned nice and bright and conditions were ideal for the various elements of the programme..
It afforded the participating teams the opportunity to work outside the classroom setting putting our First aid, Rescue, Communications and Welfare skills into action ‘on the ground’.
Six sites were set up with different scenarios on each with five teams rotating between each site. All skills were put to the test in the 40 minutes allotted to each team and a de-briefing was given to the team immediately before leaving the site. This enabled both the assessors, casualties and the teams discuss how the site panned out thus allowing for learning / sharing of ideas to all concerned. All the participants found the exercise very useful and they acquired practical experience in handling emergency situations.
The success of the exercise was due in no small way to the volunteers who acted as casualties for the day, and they made the challenges very realistic and life-like for the participants.
Coillte generously allowed the use of Hazelwood for the exercise.
The day concluded with a series of presentations and awards by the Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council, Councillor Patsy Barry, the highlight being a presentation to Gerry Donagher from Easkey who retired after 21 years as a volunteer with Civil Defence. First aid certificates and instructor certificates in a range of disciplines were awarded, as were advanced driving for emergency vehicles certificates and 10 and 20 year long service medals.
The Cathaoirleach commended Sligo Civil Defence and the Order of Malta for ‘their quiet professionalism and the commitment and dedication of their volunteers. It is very encouraging to see so many people willing to make this special, voluntary service to their community.’