The Haifa Port Fire Department conducted a quarterly emergency drill this week in the port areas, as part of its routine preparation to provide an immediate response to hazardous materials incidents and complex emergencies. The drill tested the level of preparedness, coordination, and response of all emergency personnel operating at the port.
Hazardous materials scenario and casualty evacuation
As part of the exercise, firefighting teams simulated an incident involving barrels of hazardous materials that ignited and burned in the port area. During the exercise, one “injured” person was treated at the scene by emergency teams, and then “evacuated” for further medical treatment, in accordance with emergency procedures.
The exercise focused on dealing with a complex scenario, requiring rapid response, working in dangerous conditions, and the ability to make decisions in real time.
Cooperation between all port entities
The exercise was held in full cooperation with all the parties operating at the port, including the port headquarters, the security department, and the operations department. The entire port emergency team participated in the exercise, which was managed and led by Lior Barzani, head of the emergency team section at the Port of Haifa.
Coordination between the various parties was a central component of the exercise, with the aim of ensuring efficient, safe, and coordinated action during a real event.
“High level of readiness for immediate response”
At the end of the exercise, the event was defined as a success, and it illustrated the high level of readiness of the port emergency team to provide an immediate response, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to any emergency scenario in the port areas.
The Haifa Port notes that exercises of this type are held regularly as part of an overall safety concept, aimed at protecting human life, the continuity of operations, and the security of the port environment.