On May 29, Ajax Fire and Emergency Services (AFES) will conduct a joint water rescue training exercise along the Ajax waterfront between Shoal Point and Rotary Park in partnership with PARA Marine, Durham Regional Police Marine Unit and JRCC (Joint Rescue Coordination Centre) Trenton Air and Sea.
The exercise will simulate a rescue response involving multiple individuals in an overturned kayak-type vessel off the shore of Rotary Park.
Residents may notice emergency personnel, rescue vessels, in water rescue operations and helicopter activity in the area during the exercise. We kindly request for the public to avoid the area to limit any interference with the training.
Quotes
“This joint exercise is a valuable opportunity for emergency response partners to work together in a realistic, coordinated environment. It’s exercises like this that help strengthen communication, collaboration and preparedness between agencies, ensuring everyone is ready to respond efficiently and effectively during real emergencies at our waterfront. Thank you to all partners for your ongoing commitment to public safety and emergency preparedness in our community.” – Aaron Burridge, Fire Chief, Ajax Fire & Emergency Services
“The goal of the exercise is to enhance our communication, operational efficiency, and SAR Operational Coordination between Fire, Marine SAR, Police Marine, and 424 Squadron in a dynamic multi victim water emergency. This combined exercise will give responders from multiple agencies the opportunity to work together and hone skills that could save a life in a real emergency situation.” – Lieutenant-Colonel William Livingston, 424 Transport and Rescue Squadron Commanding Officer
“Durham Regional Police Service Marine Unit is conducting this joint rescue exercise this week to demonstrate our preparedness and reinforce our commitment to water safety, in partnership with the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary – PARA Marine Search & Rescue. Durham Region is a fantastic destination for boaters, with access to three large lakes and an extensive 244 kilometres of shoreline. We continue to emphasize the importance of proper safety equipment, understanding local waterways, and knowing your own abilities, as conditions on the water can change in minutes. Our members stand ready to respond—so plan ahead, stay prepared, and make informed decisions every time you’re on the water.” – David Ricard, CD, Sergeant – Durham Regional Police Service Marine Unit
“As a volunteer organization, our greatest strength is our members. Every opportunity to prepare them for the types of emergencies and challenges they may encounter is critical. With increasing numbers of people taking to the water—often in self-powered vessels such as kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards—training opportunities like our upcoming Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREx) are more important than ever. These exercises provide members with the opportunity to face realistic scenarios in a controlled, safe environment.” – Deputy Unit Leader, Ivan Barsby, PARA Marine Search and Rescue
Quick Facts
- This exercise will take place along the Ajax waterfront between Shoal Point and Rotary Park.
- Participating agencies include Ajax Fire and Emergency Services, PARA Marine, JRCC (Joint Rescue Coordination Centre) Trenton and Durham Regional Police Marine Unit.
- The exercise will involve a simulated overturned kayak-type vessel and multiple water rescues.
- This mock rescue will include an Ajax Fire and Emergency Services water entry team, a patterned water search by PARA rescue boat and an air rescue from the Trenton Air and Sea (424 Squadron).