| Full-Scale Regional Training Exercise Highlights Coordinated Search and Rescue Operations across Air, Land, and Water
HANOVER, Md. (April 24, 2026) Emergency responders gathered in Baltimore County yesterday to tackle a series of immersive scenarios designed to test their skills, operational capabilities, and interagency coordination. Centered around Loch Raven Dam Reservoir and Gunpowder Falls State Park, SAREX 2026 spanned 20 square miles of challenging terrain. The exercise used high-fidelity props to test the technical proficiency of responders, while a mix of mannequins and live role players added a critical human element to the triage process.
“This was more than a training exercise, it was an opportunity to simulate real-world conditions, testing how effectively we communicate, make decisions, and deploy resources during complex incidents,” said Baltimore County Police Chief Robert McCullough. “Events like the Key Bridge collapse and Potomac River mid-air collision have shown no single agency can manage these situations alone.”
During the 12-hour operational period, air, land, marine, and dive resources worked together to accomplish their objectives. Such seamless interoperability is essential during real-world events, helping to build more resilient communities ahead of actual emergencies.
Training and exercises like SAREX are essential to maintaining a coordinated and effective emergency response system. By working together, Maryland’s responders are better equipped to manage complex incidents and support communities across the State.
CONTACT: Jim Abels, james.abels@maryland.gov, 667-446-0346; Emily Ritter, emily.ritter@maryland.gov, 667-446-0345; 24/7 line: 877-636-2872; Press Release courtesy of the Maryland Department of Emergency Management
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Gamber Members Participate
Units and responders from Gamber & Community Fire Co. participated in this regional training exercise. Led by Lieutenant Jack Bez, Gamber’s Assistant Dive Team Leader, divers Sean Baldwin, Lee Wessel, and Steve Hudziak, took an active role in two scenarios.
The first scenario was on the Big Gunpowder River north of the CSX bridge not far from Pulaski Highway. Their first deployment was to recover victims “swept away in kayaks” in a marsh area.
The second scenario was on the Loch Raven Reservoir in Baltimore County. Their deployment was diving for two vehicles and six people missing after the initial “dam failure” between the big and little dams at Loch Raven. While they were diving, a simulated dive injury occurred and a mannequin “diver” was hoisted by helicopter and transported to the hospital.
All participants reported that this was a very successful and worthwhile series of training exercises. |
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