Piedmont University staff, students, and state and local public safety officials are preparing for a major mass casualty drill next week. The university will host the drill on Wednesday, April 24, as part of its ongoing efforts to prepare for potential emergencies. The drill, which is expected to involve multiple simulated incidents, will take place on the main Piedmont campus in Demorest.
According to a news release issued by the school, the drill will give emergency responders and university personnel a chance to practice and refine their protocols. Piedmont nursing students will learn how to respond to a variety of simulated injuries and conditions.
“This initiative reflects Piedmont’s dedication to fostering a secure environment for students, faculty, and staff,” Piedmont University states in a press release. By simulating real-life emergencies, the university seeks to enhance the coordination and effectiveness of its emergency response teams.
Road closures
During the exercise, there will be an increased presence of law enforcement and emergency responders on campus.
Massachusetts Boulevard and Demorest Lake Road will be closed on Wednesday, April 24, until after the exercise.
The university says there may be brief traffic disruptions on and near campus, but major roads will only be impacted momentarily.
Student/community collaboration
Many students will be involved in staging the exercise. In addition to nursing, forensic students will conduct crime scene investigations, and theater students will create makeup and special effects for the ‘wounded.’
Psychology students will provide mental health support, while mass communication students will conduct interviews and document the event.
Criminal justice students will assess the scene, and education students will practice lock-down drills.
The university anticipates over 200 students participating, plus numerous faculty and staff.
Many outside agencies will assist the Piedmont University Police Department during the exercise, including Georgia Emergency Management/Homeland Security, Georgia State Patrol, Habersham County E-911/EMA, Habersham County Emergency Services, Habersham County Sheriff’s Office, the Demorest and Cornelia fire departments, Demorest Police Department, Air Life Georgia 2, Northeast Georgia Health System, Stephens County Hospital, and Stephens County EMS.
