Castries – Friday, October 14, 2011– The Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA) held a simulation emergency exercise today at sea to test the preparedness and response capabilities of the various response agencies. The simulation consisted of a plane crash at sea which enabled SLASPA to test the preparedness of George F. L. Charles Airport, Maritime Division and Port Police.

Mr. Christopher Alexander, Director of Maritime Affairs in an interview after the simulation exercise indicated “This was the first time we have held a simulation at sea that tests the preparedness of the Airports and Seaports at the same time. The simulation was held in collaboration with the Central Police Station, Traffic Department, Victoria Hospital, NEMO, Special Services Unit (SSU), Marine Unit and St. Lucia Fire Service to test the response capabilities of the SLASPA personnel and other supporting agencies. The simulation provided us and the other response personnel with the opportunity to practice response skills and equipment, test all aspects of the Security, Disaster Preparedness and Crisis Communication Plans and to test the Emergency/ Business Continuity Plan. The aim of this particular simulation was to ensure that we meet the requirements of the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS Code), International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Eastern Caribbean Civil Aviation Authority (ECCAA) policies and regulations.”

By all accounts, the simulation was successful, the emergency crews were on scene in less than two minutes defusing fires and attending to the sick and injured.