Santa Maria conducts triannual disaster drill to test airport emergency response capabilities

The Santa Maria Fire Department conducted a tri-annual disaster drill at the local airport on May 4, 2025, aimed at testing the effectiveness of the airport's emergency operations plan. Battalion Chief Seth Wells emphasized the importance of this drill, which involved a simulated incident where a vehicle collided with an aircraft, resulting in approximately 40 simulated victims scattered throughout the area.

The drill utilized the incident command system, a structured approach that ensures smooth operations during emergencies. This system designates roles and responsibilities, allowing responders to efficiently manage the situation. Chief Wells noted that the first battalion chief on the scene sets up the incident and coordinates the efforts of various teams.

During the exercise, crews were tasked with triaging victims based on their injuries. The triage system categorized victims into three groups: "green" for those with minor injuries, "yellow" for those requiring more attention, and "red" for individuals needing immediate medical care. This systematic approach helps responders prioritize treatment and transport to hospitals.

The drill also highlighted the collaborative efforts required during a mass casualty incident. The Santa Maria Fire Department worked alongside neighboring agencies, including the Santa Barbara County Fire Department, Calstar, AMR, the Red Cross, and the Santa Maria Police Department. Chief Wells pointed out that such collaboration is essential, as no single agency can manage a large-scale emergency alone.

This drill serves as a critical preparation for potential future incidents, reinforcing the need for ongoing training and readiness. By simulating realistic scenarios, the Santa Maria Fire Department aims to ensure that they are equipped to handle emergencies effectively, adapting to new challenges as they arise.