A mock overview of “disaster” conditions took place today (Monday, 25 July), as officers from the visiting RFA Wave Ruler took local officials on an aerial assessment of Grand Cayman – as would occur following an actual emergency, such as a hurricane.
The Lynx helicopter tour was led by Lt Commander Garth Atkinson, and included Governor Duncan Taylor, CBE; Hazard Management Cayman Islands (HMCI) Director McCleary Frederick; and Assistant Defence Attaché Steve Freeman who is based in Jamaica.
During the simulated “windshield survey” the officials travelled the coastline, covering areas which are usually impacted. Following a crisis, such an initial tour would precede a more detailed post-impact assessment. It would also help determine where help, like food and water, is most needed.
“I learned today that we can see most of Grand Cayman’s infrastructure – roads, utilities and facilities – simply by traversing the coastline,” said Mr. Frederick. “We also identified new potential helicopter landing sites.”
Naval officers also met with officials from the Health Services Authority and the Cayman Islands Red Cross to discuss response in the event of a major disaster. In addition, the ship’s company participated in a search and rescue exercise.
The Royal Fleet Auxiliary vessel RFA Wave Ruler is here on a return visit through Tuesday, 26 July, and visits Cayman Brac on Wednesday to discuss disaster relief with Sister Islands’ District Commissioner Ernie Scott and other officials, and tour the island.
