Finnish archipelago residents train for oil spill disasters amid rising risks in Gulf of Finland

A large-scale emergency preparedness exercise was held this week on Haapasaari, an island near Russia’s border, as Finland strengthens its response capabilities for potential oil spills and maritime accidents, reports Yle.

The drill simulated a gas carrier running aground off the eastern shore of Haapasaari, near Kotka, with reports of a leak and possible toxic fumes. While the scenario was fictional, the risks are real—oil spill threats in the Gulf of Finland are at record highs due to increased “shadow fleet” oil transports from Russia and disruptions to navigation systems.

The Finnish Ministry of the Environment has called for greater investment in disaster preparedness in the archipelago. In response, residents from multiple islands—including Kotka, Pyhtää, Hamina, and Virolahti—joined forces with Kymenlaakso Rescue Services and Xamk University of Applied Sciences to practice emergency protocols.

### Residents demand better equipment and planning
Islanders stressed the need for pre-positioned oil spill response gear rather than relying on mainland deliveries in a crisis. “If heavy oil were to reach these shores, it would be a massive operation,” said local resident Pekka Tuomola, pointing to the island’s rocky, slippery terrain. “It’s better to stop it earlier.” Sirpa Ollikainen echoed concerns, urging authorities to ensure equipment is readily available.

The exercise also highlighted communication gaps. Participants agreed on improving alert systems and designating a central meeting point for emergencies. However, they noted strengths like the local Coast Guard presence and a shared island store, which could provide food and power during prolonged disruptions.

### New challenges in oil spill response
Modern fuel compositions have complicated cleanup efforts, prompting Xamk to develop new containment methods. Justiina Halonen, Xamk’s research director, warned that in a real spill, residents should avoid contact with oil until rescue services provide guidance. “We don’t know what the substance is—it could be harmful,” she said.

The drill included first aid scenarios, with islanders practicing CPR on a dummy “victim” of a boating accident and treating a hypothetical hypothermia case. Maija Larinkari, a participant, noted the community’s strong mutual aid culture: “We already look out for each other, so why not extend that to emergency preparedness?”

Finland has installed oil boom anchoring rings in the eastern Gulf of Finland to speed up deployment in accidents. Authorities emphasize that early containment—using booms to block spills before they reach shore—remains the top priority.