South Florida RTA conducts Tri-Rail safety exercise

South Florida Regional Transportation Authority (SFRTA) officials put first responders to the test yesterday by staging a grade crossing accident as an emergency exercise.

SFRTA created a mock scenario of a vehicle being hit by a Tri-Rail train on the South Florida Rail Corridor track at Hammondville Boulevard in Pompano Beach. Participating first responder agencies included Pompano Beach Fire Rescue, the Broward County Sheriff’s Office (BSO) and the fire departments of six area cities. The scenario involved multiple passenger injuries and casualties, as well as a fire on board the train, simulated by smoke machines.

The simulation provided effective preparation and training for first responders so they can react properly during a real incident, SFRTA officials said in a press release. The Federal Railroad Administration mandates that safety and security drills be held every two years at minimum.

"This was a great effort that helped us practice a scenario we hope to never encounter in real life," said Steven Abrams, SFRTA's executive director.  "It is impressive to witness first-hand how our first responders are prepared to assist the public during these and many other types of catastrophic events."