A full-scale emergency response simulation will be taking place at the Petro-Canada marina in Prince Rupert tomorrow.
Suncor Energy, an integrated energy company that specializes in production of synthetic crude from oil sands, is hosting the event in partnership with Northwest Fuels. A press released from Suncor Energy states “emergency response exercises are developed as a test of our response to potential incidents. The purpose is to validate plans and allow learning in a safe environment”.
Aside from the emergency response simulation hosts, participants may include Western Canada Marine Response Corporation, the Prince Rupert Fire Department, Transport Canada, the Prince Rupert Port Authority, Canadian Coast Guard, Ministry of Environment, RCMP and BC Ambulance.
Due to the nature of the scenario, agencies participating will have additional motor vehicles and boats on site. Rupertites may see smoke as smoke bombs may be used.
The event will take place at the Petro-Canada marina on George Hills Ways on Wednesday, April 2 from 9:30 a.m. to noon.
A representative from Suncor Energy declined to comment on what the simulation will include, and said it is not open to the public. The company wants to inform the public to not be alarmed if they see smoke or commotion in the area during the event.