GALVESTON — A major rescue training operation unfolded Thursday near 56th Street and Seawall Boulevard, drawing attention from beachgoers who witnessed emergency vehicles, rescue boats, and even a Coast Guard helicopter converging on the shoreline.

The operation wasn’t in response to an actual emergency, but a planned full-scale simulation aimed at preparing first responders for the upcoming summer season. The scenario depicted a burning vessel with multiple victims needing rescue from the Gulf.

Multiple agencies worked side by side, including lifeguards, firefighters, paramedics, local police, and the U.S. Coast Guard. The drill tested their ability to respond quickly and in sync, covering everything from firefighting efforts to swimmer retrieval and even deploying a ladder truck to simulate rescues over the seawall.

Organizers noted that this was Galveston’s first full-scale emergency drill of this kind since the COVID-19 pandemic put many such exercises on hold. The goal was to rehearse high-stress scenarios so emergency crews can respond more effectively in real-life situations.

According to officials, comprehensive drills like this build muscle memory and reduce hesitation in critical moments. Instead of needing to think through every step, responders are better prepared to act on instinct.

Beach visitors who witnessed the drill welcomed the preparation efforts. One parent with small children on the beach said it was reassuring to see so many agencies working together to keep the public safe.

As a next step, each participating agency will evaluate the drill’s effectiveness by submitting reports analyzing what went well and what could be improved. There’s hope that these kinds of joint training exercises will become a regular pre-season tradition on the island.