Division II Participates in Multi-Agency "Over-the-Side" Drills

To encourage and develop partnerships with local first responders, LACoFD Division II personnel participated in a multi-agency "Over-the-Side" drill on July 17-19. This three-day, concentrated training exercise focused on search, rescue and EMS skills in the mountainous areas of Little Dalton Dam in Glendora, and Mount Baldy Road at San Antonio Dam in Claremont. Simulating incidents in which several vehicles and patients plunged over the side of a mountain, these scenarios allowed participating agencies to practice coordinating rescue efforts within a unified command structure.

Included in the exercises with LACoFD were the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Sierra Madre Search and Rescue Team, San Bernardino County Urban Search and Rescue Team and Engine 12, Angeles National Forest Service engine crews, the Dalton Hot Shots, the Mt. Baldy Volunteer Fire Department, the California Highway Patrol, the Cole Schaffer Ambulance Company and personnel from the Sheriff's San Dimas Station. At the end of the drills, all agencies left with a sense of increased cooperation, safety and partnerships that will facilitate working together on future incidents.