US Navy GTMO’s installation training team to conduct emergency response drill

The US Naval Station (NS) Guantanamo Bay (GTMO) installation training team officials will conduct an annual emergency response drill, aimed to enhance capabilities.

The exercise is scheduled to be held at W.T. Sampson Elementary and W.T. Sampson High schools from 9-10 January 2012.

Representatives from the installation’s fire, security and medical departments, as well as staff from both schools will participate in the drill, which will focus on appropriate methods for performing shelter-in-place, lockdown, and evacuation procedures.

NS Guantanamo Bay Installation training officer Kevin Robarge said, "This exercise is part of an ongoing Training and Readiness program driven by the base Commander and lead by the executive officer, aimed at making sure we are ready and able to care for our base residents."

W.T. Sampson administrative officer Carl Davis said that drill will ensure teachers and students are familiar with base policies and procedures associated with the events.

Installation Training Team officials continue to enhance community preparedness with recent facilitated and emergency response drill at the installation’s Windjammer pool.

"Our goal was to run an emergency response to an injury at the main pool with the life guards and ase emergency responders," Robarge added.

"Base emergency responders and Morale, Welfare and Recreation life guards were able to practice their lifesaving skills in a realistic scenario."

The scenario validated the capability of life guards, 911 dispatching and emergency responders including medical, fire, security to secure swimmers.