Effective preparation of responders for emergencies caused by disasters is essential for every community, particularly for Malta, an archipelago that faces unique challenges in disaster management. As part of the SYNERGIES project, DecEx 2024, held on December 14–15, marked a significant milestone in fostering a culture of preparedness, safety, and disaster resilience in Malta.
This event, organizsd by the Canine Search and Rescue Team under the Maltese Association of the Order of Malta, was the first national-scale exercise led by an NGO and the second civil protection exercise ever conducted at a national level in Malta. With 195 responders and 65 volunteer actors participating, the exercise simulated an immediate Assessment, Search, and Rescue (ASR) response to an earthquake. Activities included site mapping, rubble searches, rescue operations using canine and aerial tools, and disaster victim identification, adhering to UN INSARAG guidelines.
A collaborative effort
The exercise was strategically aligned with Malta’s Republic Day celebrations, creating a realistic scenario of stress and fatigue for participants. Despite initial challenges in uniting various organisations traditionally operating in silos, DecEx 2024 successfully brought together government bodies, the Civil Protection Department, and volunteer organisations to foster inter-agency collaboration. The SYNERGIES project was present to support the event, ensuring productive outcomes.
Strengthening disaster preparedness
DecEx 2024 built on challenges identified during the Malta Stakeholders Mobilisation Workshop held in July 2024. It emphasised community engagement, coordination among agencies, and the adoption of robust early warning systems. By involving both professionals and volunteers, the exercise underscored the importance of an integrated approach to disaster response.
SYNERGIES’ Role
SYNERGIES contributed to DecEx 2024 by supporting organisational efforts and engaging local stakeholders. The event provided an ideal platform to finalise the project’s Steering phase, advancing its goals in preparation for the Evaluation and Validation phases. The data and experiences gathered during DecEx 2024 will serve as a foundation for future efforts to enhance disaster preparedness and resilience in Malta.
Methodology and outcomes
For the event, the SYNERGIES team prepared various activities, including workshops, interactive surveys, and tailored interviews, all designed to gather insights and strengthen coordination while ensuring comprehensive data collection.
The exercise also facilitated high-level discussions among responder organisations and the Maltese government, addressing key issues such as improving inter-agency communication, enhancing seismic risk assessment, and integrating international best practices into local frameworks.
Images credits: SYNERGIES project
