SMFD to conduct training exercise on Santa Monica Pier

The Santa Monica Fire Department (SMFD) will conduct a training exercise on the Santa Monica Pier through Friday, May 22. The simulation exercise will be conducted from 8 a.m. to noon. This is part of SMFD’s quarterly training series and was scheduled before the Pier’s closure due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. The Santa Monica community near the Pier can expect to see the exercise on the west end, near Mariasol. Fire engines, hoses, ladders, and equipment will be visible with about two dozen personnel participating in each drill. There will not be simulated fire or smoke, but there will be water from the hose lines. The Santa Monica Police Department’s Harbor Guards will also participate in the drill. This training exercise builds on SMFD’s Pier Fire Operations plan focused on the unique characteristics of the wooden Pier and large-scale fire and marine evacuation response. SMFD firefighters will participate in the exercise along with the Harbor Guards. The Santa Monica Pier remains closed to the public.