Devola Volunteer Fire Company was proud to take part in yesterday’s multi-agency mock disaster drill on the Ohio River—a full-scale simulation of a barge striking the passenger vessel Valley Gem near downtown Marietta.
The scenario involved multiple injuries and even fatalities after the Valley Gem was hit by a loose barge—something that, while fictional here, represents a very real risk on the water. And believe it or not, medical emergencies on the river aren’t uncommon. That’s why this drill included multiple rotations of different scenarios, allowing crews to train for a variety of real-life challenges.
The video shows it all—boats racing through open water, patients being loaded and unloaded, and first responders working in high gear to shuttle victims to waiting ambulances. Even Marietta Memorial Hospital was part of the operation, preparing for the sudden influx of injured patients.
Participating agencies included:
• Devola Volunteer Fire Company
• Reno Volunteer Fire Department
• Marietta Fire Department
• Washington County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO)
• Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR)
• U.S. Coast Guard
• Valley Gem Sternwheeler
• Ohio Emergency Management Agency (Ohio EMA)
• Washington County EMA
• Kraton Chemical
• Marietta High School Fire Training Program (students served as volunteer victims)
• Marietta Memorial Hospital
All aerial footage was captured by drone pilots from Devola and Reno Fire Departments, operating together as the Washington County Rapid Drone Response Team, giving us a unique top-down look at the action and coordination in real time.
A lot was learned. Post-drill reports are highlighting areas of great success—as well as places where more training and coordination will help us grow stronger. And that’s the goal: continue to measure, improve, and be ready.
This level of response is only possible because of volunteers. Across the country, departments like ours are aging, and new members are needed more than ever. If you’ve ever thought about joining the fire or EMS service, now is the time.
Watch the video, share it, and consider stepping up. It will change your life—and someone else’s.