Carusel Association holds emergency response exercise in Bucharest based on a scenario involving a plane crashing into a residential complex

The Carusel Association organized the NIGHTFALL26 emergency response exercise in Bucharest on the night of Friday to Saturday, October 30–31, to test the response of civil society and institutions in the event of a major emergency.

The scenario began with the forced landing of a small aircraft in eastern Bucharest. The aircraft allegedly struck a residential complex, causing a fire on the ground floor of an apartment building and the evacuation of residents. The exercise focused on how injured or evacuated people are received and supported.

“Uranus Camp” was set up in a supermarket parking lot in the Pallady area, consisting of five tents for triage, medical assistance, accommodation and food services. The camp became fully operational in approximately 45 minutes. More than 20 “victims,” portrayed by volunteers, were brought in ambulances and vehicles belonging to the General Directorate of Social Assistance of Bucharest Municipality.

Participants simulated various situations, including cases involving children, older people, people with disabilities and foreign nationals who do not speak Romanian. Some roles included aggressive behavior to test the teams’ response.

Carusel, the Emergency Situations Inspectorate, the Police, DGASMB, Save the Children and the World Health Organization took part in the exercise. Organizers used response times and observation forms to identify problems and logistical needs. The activity ended at around 1:15 a.m.