Detroit-Windsor Tunnel to Host Cross-Border Emergency Drill

Annual exercise tests emergency response procedures between U.S. and Canada

Mar. 21, 2026 at 7:22pm

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The Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, one of the main border crossings between the U.S. and Canada, will be closed on Sunday morning for an annual emergency response exercise. The drill will involve first responders and security agencies from both sides of the border, testing their preparedness for potential incidents at the critical international transit point.

Why it matters

The Detroit-Windsor Tunnel is a vital transportation link between the U.S. and Canada, handling thousands of vehicles per day. Ensuring the tunnel's safety and the coordination of emergency response procedures between American and Canadian authorities is crucial for maintaining secure and reliable cross-border travel and commerce.

The details

The emergency drill, which runs from 6 to 10 a.m. on Sunday, will involve the Detroit Police Department, Detroit Fire Department, U.S. Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection, Windsor Fire and Rescue, Essex-Windsor EMS, Windsor Police Services, and Canada Border Services Agency. The exercise allows these agencies to test and strengthen their joint emergency response protocols.

  • The emergency drill is scheduled for Sunday, March 22, 2026 from 6 to 10 a.m.

The players

Regine Beauboeuf

CEO of the Detroit Windsor Tunnel.

Detroit-Windsor Tunnel

A major border crossing between the United States and Canada, connecting the cities of Detroit, Michigan and Windsor, Ontario.

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What they’re saying

“This annual exercise is an important part of ensuring the Detroit Windsor Tunnel remains safe and prepared for any emergency.”

— Regine Beauboeuf, CEO of the Detroit Windsor Tunnel

What’s next

The tunnel is expected to reopen for normal operations at 10 a.m. on Sunday after the conclusion of the emergency drill.

The takeaway

The cross-border emergency drill at the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel demonstrates the importance of ongoing coordination and preparedness between U.S. and Canadian authorities to maintain the safety and security of this critical international transportation link.