According to Brenda Cichoracki, MRH Emergency Department Manager, the disaster scenario presented was a tornado touchdown within the MRH Extended Care Facility (ECF) that included injuries and casualties. The staff responded immediately by evacuating Sanilac County Career Center students that posed as ECF residents to a safe area for triage and treatment.

Greg Roraff, MRH Chief Executive Officer, stated, “This drill was a test of our disaster protocols and our decision making skills. It went very well and helped us to identify areas where we can improve. We surely appreciate all those that assisted in this important event.” MRH disaster protocols were followed and immediately following the drill all appropriate personnel participated in an evaluation of the event.

Cichoracki stated, “Drills such as these are an important measure in the assessment of our emergency protocols and procedures. We hope we never have to implement emergency measures but we recognize the importance of being prepared. We learned a great deal through this exercise.”

Since 1951, Marlette Regional Hospital’s medical, surgical and emergency services have served thousands of people in the Marlette area. Today, MRH is a multi-faceted health care organization serving Sanilac, Tuscola, Huron, Lapeer and St. Clair counties. The mission of Marlette Regional Hospital is to continuously improve the quality of health in the communities we serve and our vision is to build lifelong relationships that promote healthier and more productive lives and lifestyles.

“MRH Emergency Room staff assesses a Sanilac County Career Center student who posed as a patient during a disaster drill.”