Emergency responders from across the Long Beach Island area took part in a large-scale Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) boating accident exercise Monday evening aimed at strengthening regional emergency preparedness and interagency coordination.

The training exercise, led by Ocean County EMS Deputy Coordinator Michael Wolfschmidt and EMT Instructor Bob Selfridge, brought together fire, EMS, and law enforcement agencies from throughout Ocean County’s EMS Zone 2.

Designed to simulate a complex boating emergency involving multiple patients, the exercise allowed participating agencies to practice coordinating rescue operations, establishing incident command, managing triage, treatment, and patient transport, while effectively utilizing regional resources.

Officials said the realistic scenario helped improve communication, resource management, and teamwork among the various responding agencies, ensuring they are better prepared to respond safely and efficiently during real-world emergencies.

Ocean County EMS Coordinators noted that exercises like this are critical to maintaining a high level of readiness and enhancing the region’s ability to provide effective emergency response for both residents and visitors.

Participating agencies included the Long Beach Township Police Department, Ship Bottom Volunteer Fire Company, Surf City Volunteer Fire Company, Beach Haven Volunteer Fire Company, Parkertown Volunteer Fire Company, Stafford Township Emergency Medical Services, and the Barnegat Light First Aid Squad.