NORFOLK, Neb. – Faith Regional Health Services recently offered the public a rare glimpse into the high-pressure world of emergency response, conducting a full-scale mock crash drill on the campus of Northeast Community College.

The event aimed to demonstrate the coordinated efforts required to handle mass casualty incidents and equip the community with a better understanding of emergency procedures.

The simulation, which unfolded on a recent morning, involved multiple law enforcement agencies, fire and rescue departments, and first responders from across the region. The scenario centered around a staged collision between a college van and a passenger vehicle.

First responders swiftly descended upon the scene, managing a chaotic environment while tending to eight "injured" passengers. Victims were transported by ambulance, and in one instance, via air ambulance to Faith Regional Health Services, providing a realistic portrayal of the triage and transport processes.

"In a situation such with a vehicular accident,” Madison County Sheriffs Department Lieutenant Lt. David MccCart said. “We had to help assist with the net landing, we also have to help manage the Faith regional hospital, because sometimes you can get chaotic when you have multiple injured people. Some of the other issues we had to worry about is the investigation. We were going to have to do reconstruction and notification, things like that.”

Later, a mock media briefing highlighted the crucial role of communication during emergencies. Hospital and law enforcement officials demonstrated how they collaborate to ensure accurate information dissemination while prioritizing patient safety and maintaining transparency with the public.

Faith Regional Health Services Marketing & Public Relations Director Kaitlyn Koziol emphasized the hospital's commitment to providing high-quality care to all patients, while also supporting their families during a stressful time. She also noted the importance of transparency, even when investigations limit the amount of information that can be immediately released.

Law enforcement officials stressed that exercises like this are vital for informing the public about real-world scenarios and promoting safety. They also underscored the media's role in disseminating information through various channels, ensuring that the community remains informed and prepared.

The event served as a powerful reminder to students and the broader public about the importance of safe driving practices, both on and off campus. By witnessing the complexities of emergency response firsthand, participants gained a deeper appreciation for the dedication and skill of first responders, as well as the importance of proactive measures to prevent accidents and save lives.