CERT, Medical Reserve Corps and Fire Department strategize

On May 5, 2012, Jacksonville Fire & Rescue held a wildfire disaster drill to determine how prepared Jacksonville is in the case of a disaster – whether it be fire, earthquake, flood, hazardous material spill or similar event. The Jacksonville, Oregon Fire Department enlisted the Jacksonville, Bear Creek and Central Point CERT (Citizens Emergency Response Team) volunteers and the Jackson County Medical Reserve Corps.

CERT Volunteer Gayle Lewis assists the injured

The drill scenario was the case of a wildfire coming over the hill up on Reservoir Road then reaching Richard Way, off of Westmont Rd. A school bus collided with another vehicle on Westmont and MaryAnn due to smoke causing low visibility. Twenty or more adults and students are hurt with two fatalities. Assistance is called from the EMS and CERT Teams, and the Fire Department goes door-to-door to evacuate and assess fire threats.

City Officer Jan Garcia and Mayor Paul Becker in the EOC

Checking-in at the Presbyterian Church Holding Center

City Personnel, Staff, Jeff Alvis City Administrator, Amy Stevenson, Planning Director, Mayor Paul Becker, David Jesser, City Councilor and others met at the EOC (Emergency Operations Center), which is the conference room at the Police Station. They directed the crisis logistics, and communication channels. The Cavalry Church on Fifth Street was the site of the Medical Aid Station and Lodging, and the Presbyterian Church on Singler Way was the Emergency Shelter, Food Service, Pet Shelter, Children’s Shelter and Food Provider.

After the event, City Planner Amy Stevenson expressed her thoughts, which were echoed by City Administrator Jeff Alvis, “This drill was really helpful, and we learned a lot about what we need to do in an actual emergency.” Alvis serves as Incident Commander in a crisis situation.

Fire Chief Devin Hull (m) Works with staff and Christopher Arnold (r)

In the video below, Public Information Officer, Chris Arnold gives his thoughts at a Press Conference at the Presbyterian Church at 12 noon. Mayor Paul Becker is also shown expressing his opinion on the drill.