Drill Needs Volunteers to Play Victims

The drill, on June 9, will help emergency workers learn how to respond to a natural disaster.

"Just a little over a year ago, the large tornado destroyed Joplin," says CERT Trainer Jaci McReynolds in a statement to news media. "The exercise June 9th will help the Webster County Community Emergency Response Team and its partners prepare to respond to a similar disaster in our community."

Full press release from Webster County CERT:

One hundred volunteers are needed to play the role of victims in an emergency drill to be held in Marshfield on Saturday, June 9, 2012. The exercise will allow Webster County emergency workers to practice responding to a natural disaster with complications.

"Just a little over a year ago, the large tornado destroyed Joplin," says CERT Trainer Jaci McReynolds. "The exercise June 9th will help the Webster County Community Emergency Response Team and its partners prepare to respond to a similar disaster in our community."

Volunteers will play the role of victims who are injured in the disaster. CERT responders will complete medical triage to determine the extent of their injuries, and the Webster County Health Unit will assist with pre-hospital treatment until ambulance crews arrive. Ham operators from ARES will assist with communications.

The exercise begins at 8:00 am and runs until noon. Lunch will be provided. Volunteers will also receive a goodie bag for participating and a free t-shirt while supplies last.

To pre-register, volunteers should call 417-830-1959. Children are welcome to participate with a parent or legal guardian.

The drill is sponsored by the Webster County CERT program in partnership with the Webster County Health Unit, Webster County Office of Emergency Management, Webster County 9-1-1, Webster County Sheriff's Department, Webster County ARES, Webster County Local Emergency Planning Committee, and the Marshfield Police Department.

CERT is a program of the Webster County Citizen Corps Council. For more information, visit www.websterCERT.org or call (417) 830-1959.