Mock rescue today on Glendale bridge

Firefighters in St Catharines were practicing their rope rescue skills on the Welland Canal Parkway today.

The exercise happens the first full week of May every year. It ensures that first responders are prepared in the case of a real emergency.

The event is part of a Canada-wide initiative to make sure Canadians are prepared for any kind of emergency.

The initiative also asks Canadians to be prepared to sustain themselves for at least 72 hours after a disaster. This makes it easier for first responders to help those who urgently need it.

Video: CHCH’s Phil Perkins talks to St Catharines deputy fire chief Dave Wood