c2c and fire service stage major emergency evacuation drill at Southend Central

c2c Railway has carried out a full-scale emergency exercise at Southend Central station, working alongside Essex County Fire and Rescue Service to test its response to a simulated fire incident.

The hour-long drill involved a mock evacuation, complete with a live 999 call, imitation smoke and the deployment of three fire crews, designed to put the operator’s emergency procedures into practice.

Realistic fire scenario tested

The exercise was based on a scenario in which smoke was detected in a basement room on station grounds, with three people reported trapped inside.

Station staff, including the station manager, ticket office and gateline teams, as well as security personnel, responded by:

• Raising the alarm

• Evacuating passengers and staff

• Securing and closing the station

• Ensuring all individuals were accounted for at designated assembly points

Rapid emergency response

Fire crews from Southend and Hawkwell, comprising 10 firefighters, arrived within minutes of the simulated emergency being reported.

The exercise allowed both c2c and fire service teams to rehearse coordination, communication and incident control in a realistic environment.

Strengthening preparedness and partnership

c2c’s Fire Safety Manager Tony Parkin said the drill demonstrated the effectiveness of the company’s emergency plans.

“The safety of our customers and colleagues is of the utmost importance to us, and I am delighted with how the c2c team quickly and safely implemented our local emergency plans,” he said.

He added that the exercise helped reinforce staff roles and build confidence in handling real-life incidents.

Joint working benefits highlighted

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service Watch Manager Marc Kyprianou said the exercise also provided an opportunity to review operational procedures and strengthen partnerships.

“It is important for us to build on existing relationships with partners such as c2c so they understand how we work and what will be expected of them in any real-life situation,” he said.

Ongoing focus on safety

The exercise forms part of ongoing efforts to ensure rail staff and emergency services are fully prepared to respond effectively to incidents, minimising risk and ensuring passenger safety.