The South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) is gearing up for a major emergency response exercise at Camber Sands, East Sussex, later this month. This multi-agency drill, led by SECAmb and featuring partner organizations such as Sussex Police, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, Rother District Council, HM Coastguard, and RNLI Lifeguards, is scheduled to commence at 10 am on Thursday, September 28.
During the exercise, residents and visitors are likely to witness a substantial presence of emergency services in action. The scenario is based on a significant incident unfolding on a bustling summer’s day, where multiple injuries necessitate immediate emergency treatment.
Known as Operation Radcott, this collaborative initiative brings together these organizations annually to ensure the safety of residents and visitors to the popular coastal resort.
Paramedic and Operational Team Leader at SECAmb’s East Sussex Operating Unit, Martin Watson said: “While we work with our Operation Radcott partners on a regular basis, this exercise provide us with the opportunity to test and learn from our plans in a safe environment. Our teams have the opportunity to hone their skills and each organisation can better familiarise itself with how other teams work so that we are all ready and prepared to respond in the event of a real incident.
“The local public should be aware that there will be a lot of activity on the beach throughout the day. People can continue to visit the area but we ask that our teams and those of our partners are given the space to test their response and improve the safety of residents and visitors alike.”
Mike Kerley, HM Coastguard Senior Coastal Operations Officer for Camber Sands area, said: “We are looking forward to joining our emergency service partners in the upcoming exercise, which will be vital to ensuring response preparedness come the real thing. The exercise will be invaluable to each organisation in training and developing the skills of the emergency responders, as well as ensuring there are effective working relationships between the organisations for an efficient response to any incident.”
