Seven members of the Adams County Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) traveled to Great American Ball Park in September to participate in the Cincinnati Mass Casualty Incident Drill. Local participants include JoAnn Hilderbrand, Frances Hook, Wade Hook, Bill Jones, Bev Mathias, Linda Steel, and Wayne Steel.
During the event, volunteers simulated both bystanders and victims in a fake terrorist-truck attack and chemical leak. Police secured the perimeter, medical personnel assess the victims and determines levels of treatment, and firefighters put their skills to the test.
“In the event that something happens, we have to be able to communicate with each other and respond together, and I think it’s important for the community,” said Rob
According to local reports, more than 300 volunteers acted as victims, with 50 different police and fire departments involved and 15 area hospitals. Several Hamilton County agencies planned the large-scale exercise for 18 months.
“The event went really well,” said Linda Steel. “It was very well organized. Volunteers arrive between 5:30 -6:15 depending on their role. We had four participate as patients, and three participated within the exercise as registration, traffic control, etc.
The Adams County Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) is a volunteer organization through the Adams County Health Department. Members do not have to have a medical background (despite the name). The Organization is designed to help the community in the event of a local disaster. Members can opt to deploy to other areas.
The MRC meets on the 4th Monday of every month at the Adams County Health Department from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM. The meetings are open to the public. The MRC also conducts the Community Lifesaving Program which is Hands-Only CPR and Stop the Bleed training. This is offered free to all organizations.
