Multi-Agency Drill Simulates Gas Leak in Downtown Area
 
By Chief of Department Dean W. Pappas
April 17, 2018
 

A multi-agency drill at Katonah Fire headquarters Monday night featured a gas leak scenario for downtown Katonah. The tabletop drill evolution was developed by Con Ed and was designed so fire, police, and EMS personnel could brainstorm on how to effectively and safely respond and mitigate the situation Attending were representatives of Katonah Fire Department, Bedford Hills Fire Department, Bedford Village Fire Department, Katonah-Bedford Hills Ambulance Corps., and Bedford Police. Additionally, Deputy Coordinator John Marshall, Battalion 16, attended. The scenario involved a possible gas leak in the Katonah Architectural Hardware Store in the heart of Katonah's commercial district at the corner of Katonah Avenue and Valley Road. Once the scenario was presented, the participating agencies brainstormed on initial response, setting up a safe zone, calling for mutual aid, checking the surrounding buildings with Con Ed emergency responders, evacuating people from the area, and mitigating the situation. This kind of tabletop drill is a great way to get various agencies to work together to come up with solutions to what could be a very serious and explosive situation. Katonah FD wishes to thank Ray Stabile, Joe Sherman and the other Con Ed representatives for presenting a challenging, thought-provoking scenario.

 
Units: Katonah FD, Bedford Hills FD, Bedford Village FD, Katonah-Bedford Hills Volunteer Ambulance Corps, Bedford Police, Battalion 16, Con Ed, NYSEG Gas