Metrolink Emergency Manager Eric Smith (left), Senior Manager of Compliance BJ Takushi (back) and Board Director Walter Allen III (center) chat with members of the Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACoFD).
On Sunday, May 18, Metrolink’s Safety, Security and Compliance Department partnered with Los Angeles County Fire Department, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Covina Police Department and Falck Ambulance crews to execute a full-scale, mass-casualty emergency simulation at the Covina Station. Approximately 60 staff members and volunteers assisted by role-playing a variety of characters, including passengers with minor to severe injuries. A pair of volunteers also displayed some common signs of human trafficking, which were successfully detected by responding personnel.
Metrolink Board Director and Covina City Councilmember Walter Allen III was on hand to observe the drill and connect with participants. Metrolink Board Director and Brea City Councilmember Marty Simonoff was also in attendance, assuming the role of an injured customer during one of two emergency scenarios the teams acted out.
LACoFD firefighters evacuate a volunteer through a passenger car window during the full-scale emergency simulation held May 18 at the Metrolink Covina Station.
In addition to familiarizing first responders with Metrolink equipment and the unique considerations associated with a large-scale rail incident, realistic simulations provide an opportunity for Metrolink staff to employ emergency response procedures in a controlled setting. By conducting back-to-back scenarios, onsite and remote staff were able to gain critical experience and apply key learnings to improve from the first model crisis to the second.