Heroes In Action At Mass Casualty Incident Drill Involving Train On LI

AMAGANSETT, NY — The scene was chillingly real Sunday morning as first responders rushed to the scene of a Long Island Rail Road train derailment in Amagansett. But the smoke was artificial and the passengers were actors — as all involved took place in a full-scale mass casualty incident drill.

The event took place on Montauk Highway. The scenario involved a passenger train, on the LIRR Montauk line, that had struck a vehicle at a grade crossing, officials said.

"This accident causes a derailment of the train and a fire in the first car of the consist. Various injuries to passengers occur as a result of the impact and smoke condition on the train. Additionally, there was a car fire on the right of way as a result of the collision for this scenario," the scenario for the event read.

All emergency services that serve East Hampton Town were invited to take part, including fire, EMS and police. The drill was organized in conjunction with the East Hampton Town Chiefs Association, Stony Brook Southampton Hospital and the MTA Long Island Rail Road.

Emergency service vehicles responded to the exercise with actors playing patients, some of whom were transported by ambulances to Stony Brook Southampton Hospital.

The drill did not disrupt emergency services, as other crews were standing by at the ready to answer the regular call volume. Hospital access was also unrestricted, officials said.

Participating emergency vehicles were on-site as well as the actors, the hospital said.

"From incident command to radio communication and start triage, these heroes are ready to spring into action at a moment's notice to ensure the safety and well-being of our community," said Suffolk County Fire Rescue and Emergency Services.