[WARC] August 4th drill update

[Erik Brom]

I attended the final planning meeting for the drill today.  Not a lot 
to report, but Winona Fire Chief Krall did speak highly of our 
skills, Lynn Theuer commented on how important shadows were (vs. 
trying to do it yourself).  The meeting moderator brought up how we 
can get through even if their channels are plugged, and I re-affirmed 
that we come with our own infrastructure.

Chief Krall gave us 10 vests with "Communications" on a laminated 
sign.  These are ours to keep.  I'll hold on to them for now, but we 
should find a good "club" place to store them.

The RR safety rules called out safety shoes and glasses, but all we 
need are sturdy shoes.  No open toes or sandals.  One other thing 
they emphasized is to be safe yourself.  If someone gets hurt or 
otherwise goes down, it could shut down the whole drill.  They said 
this especially happens in *small* towns where the volunteers are not 
used to the physical activity.

Lance and I are going to visit Brad Benke to look at the 
communications setup at the hospital, since we are planning to relay 
victim info from triage.

It sounds like the drill is well organized.  They have portapotties, 
nametags, lunch afterwards, etc., all arranged.

My own recommendations, are to make sure you have your FEMA 
certification (I don't yet and its not required), and make sure your 
equipment is in good working order and you know how to use it.

Thanks,

Erik