Emergency Response Exercise Puts Preparedness to the Test

As part of Emergency Preparedness Week, ARLANXEO hosted the 2025 annual emergency response simulation in partnership with BASES, the City of Sarnia, and Aamjiwnaang First Nation. This annual exercise brings together industry members and emergency response partners to test and strengthen regional preparedness.

The scenario, described as a “second worst-case” incident, was designed to challenge site responders with multiple system failures and decision points. The one-hour simulation included leak identification, fence line air monitoring, activation of fire suppression systems, wind direction assessment, and the creation of a “water curtain” to contain a simulated chemical release. Response teams from neighbouring facilities were invited to audit the exercise, providing external observations and feedback to help identify strengths, gaps, and opportunities for improvement.

Key stakeholders were also invited to view a live stream of the simulation from ARLANXEO’s on-site auditorium, offering an opportunity to witness the exercise in real-time and engage in discussions about site operations and emergency preparedness.

The exercise also emphasized mutual aid coordination, communications planning, and engagement with nearby communities. While no public safety actions were required, the scenario was a realistic test of the procedures and systems that would be activated in a real emergency.

This annual exercise serves as a valuable opportunity to evaluate emergency response systems, share feedback, and ensure continuous improvement across the region. A notification was sent through Sarnia-Lambton Alerts to advise the public of increased activity in the area.