Testing emergency response - Exercise Dogwood in Findon village
On a sunny autumn day, Findon village became the scene of a dramatic emergency simulation known as Exercise Dogwood - a carefully staged event designed to test the readiness and coordination of local emergency response teams.
The scenario - an unexploded bomb was discovered in the heart of the village, prompting the evacuation to Findon Village Hall of 20 residents, played by volunteers from the village. With no time to gather belongings, evacuees arrived with nothing, simulating the real-life urgency and unpredictability of such emergencies.
Each participant was given a detailed profile, outlining specific needs such as medical conditions, children's requirements and the need for clothing and blankets adding realism and urgency to the exercise.
Findon Village Hall Trustees opened the hall as a rest centre and did a great job of supporting the evacuees until other agencies arrived. The village hall proved to be an ideal location for a rest centre, offering excellent facilities including accessible toilets and well-equipped kitchens. Teas, coffees and light snacks were provided, by the Trustees, to attendees upon arrival.
Food requirements were carefully recorded to accommodate dietary needs such as diabetic, vegan and vegetarian preferences. This ensured that, should the situation require hot food to be ordered in, appropriate options could be sourced.
Contingency plans were in place for extended stays. If the duration had increased, staff were prepared to assemble makeshift beds to ensure comfort and rest for those affected.
The operation was led by Arun District Council's Emergency Planning Officer, supported by a dedicated team from West Sussex County Council (WSCC), Arun District Council rest centre staff, Findon Village Hall trustees, and the British Red Cross. Together, they created a fully functioning rest centre, recording evacuee details, assessing needs, and providing essential support, both practical and emotional.
The Trustees ensured that the evacuees were provided with shelter and refreshments whilst they waited for the other agencies to arrive.
The Red Cross played a vital role, offering, wash bags, blankets, and emotional support, ensuring comfort and care for all involved.
Officers from WSCC Resilience and Emergency Team were able to offer the support of the counties Social Services and had transport on standby if required.
Arun District Council Officers swapped their normal day jobs to work as rest centre staff, providing compassionate support to the evacuees.
The volunteers from the village who did a great job of playing the part of evacuees made the whole thing feel realistic.
Throughout the exercise, the rest centre manager provided regular updates, including advising the bomb disposal squad had arrived at the scene and when evacuees could return home.
After approximately three hours, the all-clear was given and the evacuees were “sent home,” marking the end of the exercise.
Michael Rowland, Emergency planning Officer said:
“This event was a culmination of work that has taken place between ADC and the Findon Village Hall Trustees to make sure they and the village hall was ready to be a rest centre should the need arise.
What made Exercise Dogwood truly successful was the commitment of everyone involved. The “actors” portraying evacuees were fantastic, bringing authenticity and emotion to the scenario. For the emergency teams and the Trustees, it was an invaluable opportunity to test procedures, identify gaps, and strengthen collaboration across agencies.
Events like Dogwood are essential in ensuring that, should a real emergency occur, our communities are prepared, protected, and supported. A huge thank you to all who participated and supported this valuable initiative.”