The Panama Canal recently conducted a fire drill aboard a tanker vessel to assess the emergency response capabilities of its units. This exercise, held in collaboration with the Panama Fire Department, took place on a 250-meter long vessel docked at the Pacific terminal in Panama Bay. The drill was orchestrated by the Canal’s fire section along with other operational teams to test the effectiveness of inter-agency collaboration and ensure that all emergency procedures are executed efficiently and in a coordinated manner.
Omar Vanterpool, manager of the Canal Fire Department, highlighted the drill’s objective, stating that it aimed to integrate various entities including firefighters, the Tug Division, boat crew, Canal Protection, and personnel from the Benemérito Fire Department of Panama. This collaboration is essential for managing potential emergencies and ensuring the safety and reliability of the waterway for global trade. Carlos Gomez, a Fire Protection Specialist for the Canal, emphasized the complexity of responding to a fire on a vessel, which necessitates coordinated efforts from multiple Canal entities.
He noted that the drill was crucial not only for firefighters but for all involved in emergency response. The drill saw participation from around 70 individuals, including firefighters, boat unit personnel, tug operators, and evaluators, all aimed at maximizing the exercise’s impact. Prior to the drill, the Canal’s Protection and Emergency Response Division informed other state security and emergency institutions to keep them updated on the exercise’s progress.
Through this drill, the Panama Canal reaffirmed its commitment to safety and preparedness, which is vital for the well-being of the Panamanian population and the sustainable development of the region.