Emergency response simulation 

An emergency response simulation in parc des cèdres neighbourhood October 5 brought teams together on both sides of the river. The practice was meant to give first responders, search and rescue teams as well as residents the experience of collaborating in case of a natural disaster. The Ottawa Riverbed fault-line makes the Ottawa Valley Canada’s 3d most risky area for an earthquake. Gatineau has practiced its response for the last five years, but this is the first time the services collaborated on both sides of the river.

The simulation was for a 6.5 magnitude earthquake along the faultline. “Oh yes, there would be injured people and material damage,” one search and rescue volunteer explained.

Teams spread out in the neighbourhood knocking on doors, looking for victims. Volunteers assembled in the morning to volunteer with the search and rescue efforts, as well as to play the roles of victims.