On May 13, a training exercise on “Rules of conduct during a major earthquake” in Yeghegnadzor. The command-post training organized by the Rescue Service was observed by representatives of the Vayots Dzor regional and authorities of the town, officers from the Police of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, participant and citizens. 

A burning hotel, stuck citizens and a car under rubble…

According to the scenario, the rescuers had to quickly evacuate people stuck inside a hotel, extinguish the fire and extract a citizen stuck in a car under rubble.

“Involved in the exercise were three operational rescue teams from the Yeghegnadzor and Vayk Fire And Rescue Squads alongside police officers, patrol units, emergency medical staff, standby personnel from the electricity and gas services, and volunteers from the Red Cross”, said the Head of the Vayots Dzor Regional Rescue Department Hakob Sargsyan.

Firstly Yeghegnadzor and Vayk Fire and Rescue Squads evacuated the casualties from the hotel due to the earthquake and moved to the ambulance. They then used rope-rescue techniques to bring individuals stuck on the third floor down, who were also provided with first aid.

The rescuers carefully dismantled the car covering rubble and pulled the casualty out. They also quickly extinguished the fire that had broken out on the third floor of the hotel.

According to Head of the Vayots Dzor Regional Rescue Department, r/s Colonel Hakob Sargsyan such exercises were a part of the daily activity of rescue personnel.  The command staff exercises allowed for the evaluation of operational capabilities, identification of shortcomings and improvement of skills.

The task was completed successfully. These types of events were essential not only for enhancing the preparedness of rescue teams but also for ensuring public safety and helping people navigate emergencies correctly.

Finally, may all earthquakes and accidents be nothing more than exercises, ending on a hopeful note.