A large cruise ship, the Holland America Line’s Zuiderdam, was featured during the opening ceremony of the Try for treatment at Southern Maine Community College, garnering attention from attendees. While scheduled to arrive, its timing raised some concerns, particularly as it passed near the swimming area of the event. The ship faced a medical emergency, which prompted a rapid response at the Ocean Gateway Terminal, where Portland Fire Station’s Ladder 1 and Medcu 5 were deployed.
This incident served as a crucial training opportunity for the fire department, emphasizing the importance of having prepared access to large ships, given that more than 100 cruise ships visit Portland annually. The ladder truck provided an efficient means to transport tools and gear, especially useful in busy conditions. Zuiderdam, carrying almost 2,000 passengers, is set to make 16 visits to Portland this season. However, officials did not disclose specifics about the medical emergency.
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