Major Greater Manchester emergency planning exercise this month

Organisations across Greater Manchester and nationally are taking part in an emergency planning exercise later this month.

The multi-agency exercise will include a live response search and rescue play in the Rochdale and Oldham areas on Thursday 14 July.

There will be a period of infrequent air activity from 10am to 10pm – including the use of military helicopters.

Exercise Triton II – the biggest, major live exercise of its kind ever held in the region – will test how local authorities, emergency services and other partners are equipped to tackle a major emergency together.

Under the Civil Contingencies Act 2004, it is a requirement for local authorities and emergency services to plan for major incidents and category one responders.

Participating ‘players’ – who also include military, government, health and utility organisations – will join forces.

Paul Argyle, Chairman of Greater Manchester Resilience Forum, said: “Exercises like this are hugely important to ensure – as a region – we are prepared to deal with a real-life major event or disaster, should it occur.

“Police, firefighters and paramedics will work side-by-side with around 33 partner agencies including local councils, utility companies, the military and specialist search and rescue teams to respond to the disaster during that week.

“The scale of the scenario will give these organisations a vital opportunity to practise skills and functions that are rarely used but are necessary in the event of a major incident.

“I would like to assure residents across the region that it will be business as usual during this exercise.

“I would also like to express my thanks to all the volunteers who will be taking part. With them on board we will be able to ensure we provide the best support possible for our residents and communities should such incidents occur.”