NEWS
Tunnels, Bridges & Terminals

116-99: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE , October 8, 1999

TUNNEL FIRES, VEHICLE ACCIDENTS AND CHEMICAL SPILLS TO BE SIMULATED AT PORT AUTHORITY CROSSINGS


The Port Authority and local municipalities will prepare for the worst by practicing to do what they do best -- they will stage mock emergencies throughout October at the George Washington and Goethals Bridges and the Lincoln and Holland Tunnels throughout October.

"These drills are just one of the many steps we take to make sure we can handle unforeseen situations," said Ken Philmus, the agency's Director of Tunnels, Bridges and Terminals. "This is our top priority -- to ensure the safety of the almost 250 million vehicles that cross our bridges and tunnels each year."

The drills are scheduled as follows:

· George Washington Bridge -- On Sunday, October 10, at 7 A.M. emergency crews will simulate a vehicular accident/fire and use extrication equipment to rescue "victims." The New York City Fire Department also will take part in this exercise.

· Holland Tunnel -- On Sunday, October 24, at 4 A.M. the Port Authority, working with the New York and Jersey City fire departments, will practice battling blazes in complete darkness to simulate conditions during a power failure in the tunnel's north tube.

· Lincoln Tunnel -- On Sunday, October 31, at 6 A.M. Port Authority emergency crews, North Hudson Regional and New York City fire departments will fight fires in the center tube of the tunnel.

· Goethals Bridge -- On Sunday, October 31, at 9:30 A.M. a simulated chemical spill and multiple-vehicle accident will be staged. Emergency crews from the Goethals Bridge, the Bayonne Bridge and the Outerbridge Crossing will take part in this exercise.

Each drill will last about two hours and take place during off-peak hours to ensure no impact on traffic conditions. Participants dressed in emergency gear will use the appropriate rescue equipment. Volunteers will be made up as "victims" ready for rescue.

Media interested in attending a drill should call 212 435-7777.

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