Preparing for the worst

In today’s world, even small, remote communities like Borderland can be the site of emergencies. On Thursday, the area’s emergency staff staged an emergency involving the crash of a small regional commercial jet that resulted from an act of terrorism. An airport drill is required every three years by the Transportation Security Administration.

 The exercise included crews from around the community — the airport fire department, the International Falls Fire Department, Delta Airlines crews, International Falls and Koochiching County law enforcement, U.S. Border Patrol, hospital nurses, and ambulance staff.

Knowing what to do in advance of a real emergency can save lives and reduce mistakes. This drill taught lessons that can be used in the event of a real emergency under different scenarios, such as a mass car accident or shooting.

Leaders of the drill said the reactions and responses of emergency staff were on track and exceeded expectations. Such drills also work to connect and integrate the different organizations involved in handling emergencies.

Noting that very few mistakes were made, leaders of the mock emergency said those involved can always learn something from a drill.

Living in a remote and isolated area like Borderland means we need to be even more diligent in preparing for emergencies because we must rely on our own, trained responders to react. Thanks to all who took part in the drill, we are better prepared for the worst, while hoping that the knowledge and skills exercised and gained are never needed.