Collaborative Disaster Training For Canadian Forces Bases And Civilian Partners

Authors

  • Nicolas Meunier Royal Roads University

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the level of collaboration between the Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Comox and its civilian partners in the implementation of disaster response and training techniques. The research examines the participants’ understanding of disaster responses practiced through military-civilian disaster training exercises. The research also provides insight into how to improve the level of preparedness as well as response strategies on both military and civilian sides, thereby increasing the resilience of communities in proximity to military installations. The study results present conclusions and recommendations related to training and exercises. Identifying and investigating the many perspectives of multiple involved parties who have experience with disaster simulations and exercises provides a unique opportunity for learning about building collaborative responses.

Author Biography

Nicolas Meunier, Royal Roads University

Sergeant Nicolas Meunier is a Search and Rescue Team Leader and has served almost two decades with the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). He has been deployed overseas 9 times for multiple missions of disaster relief, humanitarian help, war zone and international security in collaboration with United Nations, NATO and multiple government level agencies around the world. He also has a background in accounting, marketing, business, management and consultant in multiple fields. In addition, he recently completed a Master Degree of Arts in Disaster and Emergency Management with Royal Roads University in Victoria, BC

The Search and Rescue Technician (SAR Tech) is part of an elite group of highly trained rescue specialists who provide on-scene medical aid and extraction from some of the harshest and most remote areas of Canada. They deploy from rotary or fixed wing aircraft in any environment or climactic conditions and rescue operations may require parachuting, mountaineering, hiking, swimming and scuba diving, sometimes in adverse condition.

Nicolas Meunier was a Team Leader and Subject Matter Expert during the historical 1st operational deployment of SAR Techs after the earthquake in Haiti in 2010. This deployment bridged NGO’s, international rescue organizations and worldwide military groups in a collaborative rescue effort.

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Published

2013-08-12

Issue

Vol. 15 No. 1 (2013)

Section

Annual National Student Award Competition