For Immediate Release

For more information, contact:
Meredith Johanson, 763-684-6801

Practice makes perfect in disaster situations

BUFFALO, Minn. 11/20/2007--Worst case scenario, an ice storm hits Minnesota and lasts three to four days, taking out power, natural gas and making roads impossible to drive on. Remember in 1996, when an ice storm coated parts of St. Paul with up to 3" of ice, then brutal, -30 degree temps descended? Like that, only worse. This was the scenario for a hazardous winter weather exercise held from Nov. 12 to 16 at all Allina Hospitals & Clinics facilities, including Allina Medical Clinic – Buffalo and Buffalo Hospital with participation from Allina Medical Transportation, Wright County Emergency Management and Wright County Public Health.  

"These kinds of drills help us be prepared to handle all kinds of situations," says Laurie McPhee, safety, security and engineering manager at Buffalo Hospital. "We practice different scenarios each time, and in Buffalo, have actually experienced two real challenges recently with the phone outage in September and the natural gas shutoff about this time last year. In each case, lessons learned from practice drills helped us cope without compromising patient care in any way."

A drill is no different than a real situation except that actual lives are not in danger. Participants go through all of the problem solving needed to ensure the best outcome for everyone. "In this case, we had to provide additional heat for the hospital," said McPhee. "Finally, we actually had to make plans to transfer patients to other area facilities. Everyone worked well together, doing their part, making it a smooth event with good outcomes."

"If and when we have a major event or disaster, as in this scenario, we need to be able to respond in unison as a team," said Steve Berg, CEM, emergency management coordinator, Wright County Sheriff's Office.  "These exercises help to make us aware of weaknesses and strengths in our emergency operations plans and give us a chance to take corrective action."

To test communications systems during this drill, Wright County volunteer ham radio operators were called in. "This group of amateur radio operators proved to be a big benefit to all of us," said Jon Young, emergency preparedness planner, Wright County Public Health. "These are the kinds of lessons we learn by having all the groups work together in a drill situation.  We now know we have a local communications backup if we ever need it." 

Berg sums it up well. "I have always felt that perfect practice makes perfect and having the opportunity to practice with different departments, disciplines, agencies, and personnel is important practice.  It also gives the participants time to get to know each other prior to an event. By working and practicing together we are better prepared to protect the lives and property of our citizens."

About Buffalo Hospital

Part of Allina Hospitals & Clinics, Buffalo Hospital is a not-for-profit regional medical center committed to providing exceptional care and improving the health of the communities it serves in and around Wright County. Information about Buffalo Hospital's services, along with the latest health information, can be found online at www.buffalohospital.org.