HMCI Strengthens Mass Rescue Response Operations

By: Aliya Dunstan

Hazard Management Cayman Islands (HMCI) hosted a two-day Mass Rescue Operations (MRO) workshop on 13th and 14th February 2025, bringing together key emergency response teams and private sector partners to enhance the country’s preparedness for a large-scale maritime incident. Participants included representatives from the Cayman Islands Coast Guard, Emergency Medical Services at the Health Services Authority, Cayman Islands Fire Service, Department of Public Safety Communications, Royal Cayman Islands Police Service, Department of Tourism, Port Authority of the Cayman Islands, shipping agents and Carnival Cruise Lines.

The workshop aimed to demonstrate the Cayman Islands’ capability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from an MRO incident involving a large passenger vessel. Facilitated by Phil Bostock of His Majesty’s Coast Guard, the sessions included scenario-based discussions, and a tabletop exercise designed to test current response protocols and identify areas for improvement.

One of the highlights of the workshop was a visit to the Royal Watler Cruise Terminal, where participants observed active cruise operations with two ships in port. This provided an opportunity to assess real-time logistics and further discuss operational coordination in the event of an emergency.

Key objectives of the workshop included:

• Sharing planned actions and procedures in the event of a Mass Rescue Operations incident;

• Identifying planning gaps in existing plans, protocols, and procedures;

• Encouraging active communication, discussions, and participation among stakeholders;

• Promoting proactive problem resolution with simple and practical solutions.

A tabletop exercise was conducted in consultancy with a representative from Carnival Operations Center in Miami. The exercise simulated a cruise ship fire in the engine room requiring passenger evacuation, while another vessel was docked in port. The exercise provided valuable insights into coordination strategies, resource allocation, and decision-making processes during an emergency.

HMCI Director Dani Coleman emphasized the importance of the workshop, stating, “Seeing our emergency response teams in action, working through the scenario and troubleshooting key points with input from the Department of Tourism and Port Authority personnel, was truly encouraging. This workshop provided a great opportunity to enhance our collaborative approach and ensure we are well-prepared to respond effectively to a mass rescue situation. The positive outcome of these exercises reinforces our commitment to strengthening national resilience.”

This workshop is part of HMCI’s ongoing commitment to building a more resilient Cayman. By coordinating with emergency response teams, private sector partners, and international experts, HMCI continues to enhance national preparedness for major incidents. Given that cruise tourism is a vital contributor to the local economy, strengthening emergency response capabilities in this sector remains a priority.