FREETOWN, Mass. (WBZNewsRadio) - Southeastern Massachusetts Communities are preparing for the worst-case scenario, as train service to and from Middleborough, East Taunton, Freetown, Fall River and New Bedford, is set to begin for the first time in decades.
“The safety of our passengers, crews, and the communities we serve is always our top priority. Teamwork and strong local partnerships are critical to ensuring the best possible outcomes during an emergency response,” said Abdellah Chajai CEO of Keolis Commuter Services, the operating partner for the MBTA Commuter Rail. “I want to thank all of the local first responders for participating in this training exercise and working hand in hand with us to prepare for the coming South Coast Rail service.”
The MBTA, along with community emergency groups, held an emergency response exercise last week in Freetown. The drill simulated a real-life event in which a Commuter Rail train carrying some 130-passengers collided with an occupied vehicle at a crossing. During the exercise, there was a simulated fire on one of the coaches and passengers in need of medical attention.
“Every day, I rest assured that we have dedicated heroes putting their lives at risk to protect others,” said MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng. “These first responders hope never to need to implement their training, but when the call comes, they never hesitate. I'm proud that the MBTA Transit Police, South Coast Rail (SCR) project managers, and Keolis have collaborated with local municipalities and their first responders. I cannot stress the importance enough for first responders to perform emergency response exercises on actual trains. In a real-life situation, familiarity with the train configuration saves lives. I want to thank the SCR team and all the heroic responders for their continued commitment to public safety.”
The drill was a complete success and is just one of many facets of the new safety campaign led by the MBTA. It follows the "Safety First" education program for communities in which the SCR runs through, highlighting safety information through training classes, videos, and other presentations.
“This exercise demonstrated the dedication and commitment our emergency responders have to providing the best response possible when the unforeseen happens,” said Freetown Fire Department Chief Harrie Ashley. “Multiple agencies from five different communities came to this exercise to better prepare for the challenges that the South Coast Rail Project will present as we move closer to completion. We learned we can take on any challenge and, with the help of our mutual aid partners, overcome them. However, we also take away the fact that we can never rest when it comes to training and preparedness for the next challenge. I would like to extend a heartfelt THANK YOU! to everyone involved in the preparation and execution of this exercise.”