The Groß-Gerau district is conducting a training exercise in Mosbach to simulate complex disaster scenarios with the fire department, THW (Federal Agency for Technical Relief) and aid organizations
280 emergency responders from the Groß-Gerau district practiced joint responses to major disasters during a three-day disaster relief exercise in Mosbach. In "Joint Rescue 2026," the fire department, the Federal Agency for Technical Relief (THW), and other aid organizations had to, among other things, secure hospital operations during a power outage and manage a building collapse with numerous casualties.
The exercise took place from August 28th to 30th, 2026, at the Training Center for Rescue and Assistance (TCRH) in Mosbach, Baden-Württemberg. The aim was, in particular, to test the cooperation between different organizations during complex and prolonged operations.
Emergency services from the fire department, the Federal Agency for Technical Relief (THW), the Workers' Samaritan Federation (ASB), the German Red Cross (DRK), and the Malteser Aid Service (MHD) participated. The 280 participants were divided into two shifts, one from Friday to Saturday and the other from Saturday to Sunday.
Power outages, fires and building collapses
Various disaster scenarios were simulated on the training grounds. During a simulated prolonged power outage, the operation of a hospital had to be ensured. Other exercises included explosions and fires with casualties.
One particularly extensive scenario involved the collapse of an apartment building with more than 40 injured and trapped people . Real fires were also used on the training grounds. Some scenarios lasted into the night.
In addition to the respective technical tasks, particular emphasis should be placed on training in coordination between the participating organizations.
14 actors portraying injured people are in use
Fourteen actors made up to look like injured people were used for the medical training scenarios . This allowed for practicing the care and treatment of a large number of injured people, as well as the cooperation between medical units and other emergency services.
The exercise also included the conditions of a prolonged disaster relief operation. The district's German Red Cross (DRK) support units provided food and drinks to the emergency personnel. They spent the night on the training grounds in tents and on cots.
“Joint Rescue 2026” was prepared by the Civil Protection Department of the Hazard Control Service of the Groß-Gerau district together with the THW, ASB, DRK and MHD as well as representatives of Veritas Kelsterbach.
(DISTRICT OF GROSS-GERAU – RED/PSKGG)
Featured image: Rehearsing for an emergency: The district's disaster relief team during a training exercise in Mosbach. Photo: District Administration
