In working to ensure first responders are prepared for a major incident at Toronto’s Union Station, Metrolinx recently held the largest disaster simulation in the history of Canada’s busiest transit hub. Working in partnership with Toronto Paramedic Services, the event simulated an attack by an assailant with an automatic weapon and a fire on a train platform, and involved the participation of 150 volunteers.
“We’re going to test all of their skills. There’s so much that goes on in this building, there’s so many entrance and exit points, if you had to lock it down, that’s not a simple endeavour at all,” said Metrolinx spokesperson Anne-Marie Aikins of the scope of the simulation.
The exercise represents a continuation of previous efforts to ensure the readiness of Metrolinx in the event of a disaster, following the simulations of train derailments in September 2018 and April 2017.
To further help with security issues and emergency response, Metrolinx has also recently begun deploying a canine unit at Union Station. “It’s a very visible, obvious presence of the dogs that sends the message that we’re taking safety seriously,” says Bill Grodzinski, director of safety for Metrolinx.
Sources:
https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/commuters-will-soon-see-dogs-on-duty-at-union-station-1.4540181
