Emergency Response Teams Conduct Major Incident Training at Aasee and Canal in Münster
Emergency response teams from DLRG, the fire department, and ASB conducted a significant incident training exercise at Aasee and the Canal in Münster. Approximately 100 personnel participated in this extensive water rescue training session held on a Saturday.
Overview of the Training Exercise
The training aimed to simulate various emergency scenarios effectively while enhancing inter-agency collaboration. Despite the cold weather and light rain, the teams began the exercise by addressing an environmental situation at Aasee. This phase involved practicing a response to a fuel leak from a boat, focusing on containment strategies to prevent a potential oil spill.
Containment Strategies at Aasee
- Special oil barriers were deployed from boats at the scene.
- The local fire department contributed several vehicles, including a specialized container for waterway protection.
- This segment aimed to prepare volunteers for real-world conditions and environmental emergencies.
Environmental safety is particularly important at Aasee. Following a significant fish die-off in the summer of 2018, the City of Münster implemented measures to stabilize the waterways, including aeration systems and regular water quality checks.
Rescue Operations at the Canal
In the second phase, the training shifted to the Dortmund-Ems Canal. Here, the focus was on rescuing individuals from flooded buildings, simulating a high-water situation in Münster. Responders practiced evacuating people from a specially prepared container designed to resemble a house.
- This exercise involved medical care for the evacuated individuals.
- DLRG members from the Steinfurt district joined to assist with the operations.
- Key training aspects included coordination, communication, and first aid protocols.
As night fell, the teams searched for a submerged vehicle in the canal. Divers and the ASB’s rescue dog team participated, honing their skills for searches along banks and shorelines.
Importance of Regular Training
The Dortmund-Ems Canal has been the site of actual rescue operations, making these drills critical for the DLRG and fire teams. Participants considered this multi-hour exercise a valuable opportunity to prepare for real emergencies, including environmental incidents, flooding, and complex water rescues.
Since the early 2000s, DLRG Münster has engaged in joint training with the fire department, police, and other organizations. They regularly practice at Aasee, in Hiltrup, and along the canal to ensure synchronized operations and effective communication amongst land, water, and dive teams.
Future of Water Rescue in Münster
The City of Münster has increased its focus on water rescue since the 2021 Ems flooding, providing additional equipment to enhance the city’s preparedness. As extreme weather events and water pollution incidents grow more frequent, effective collaboration remains essential.
This latest major exercise showcased the ongoing commitment of emergency response teams to uphold public safety in and around Münster’s waterways. Their dedication illustrates the vital role of volunteer service in regional safety efforts.
