AMA BUILDS SKILLS AND PARTNERSHIPS AT AIRCRAFT EMERGENCY DRILL

Members of the Akwesasne Mohawk Ambulance (AMA), alongside regional emergency response partners, recently participated in a full-scale aircraft crash simulation held at the Massena International Airport. This training exercise provided a valuable opportunity to strengthen collaborations while enhancing preparedness for complex emergency scenarios.

Representing AMA were EMS Operations Manager Issac McDonald and EMTs Teeweewes Swamp and Shaydon Mitchell, who played an active role in the coordinated response.

During the simulation, AMA members were responsible for transporting injured individuals to a simulated hospital before returning to the crash scene. They also responded to a simulated emergency involving an injured passenger located in a field, utilizing an all-terrain rescue vehicle supplied by the Massena Fire Department. The exercise incorporated live participants with simulated injuries, creating a realistic training environment.

The simulation was hosted by the Massena Volunteer Fire Department, Massena Volunteer Emergency Unit, and the Massena International Airport, with participation from several partner agencies, including New York State Police, New York State Emergency Management, Waddington Rescue, Seaway Valley Ambulance, and the St. Lawrence County Office of Emergency Management.

The Akwesasne Mohawk Ambulance remains committed to pursuing training opportunities that provide hands-on, practical experience. Through exercises like this, AMA members continue to build the skills, confidence, and partnerships needed to respond effectively when it matters most, ensuring the safety and well-being of the community.