[TMRA] HOSPITAL DRILL UPDATE

[W8TER]

Just an update about the Hospital Drill.

I sent out a request for confirmation and questions. At this time I do 
not know if the drill will take place on Wednesday the 28. Due to some 
difficulties I do not think it will occur on that day. (Read below)

"The Hospital Preparedness Coordinator is working to get this drill 
properly organized but there have been some issues with the hospital 
MARCS Radios as a result of the upgrade that is currently in progress 
throughout the state. The MARCS Radios are a big component of this drill 
and ODH had initially indicated that the MARCS Radio upgrade process 
would have already occurred by now, but this is not the case. They are 
also finding that there are some programming errors in some of the new 
radios. As a result, we are considering postponing the drill again until 
the changeover process is complete. This would allow for a less 
frustrating drill with all hospitals on the same page, and a later drill 
would also be a good first test of the new upgraded system."

I am hopeful they will get the system worked out. I have replied to them 
and let them know that when they are ready, we look forward to 
participating in their communication exercise.

This is an important agency and their drill is going to cover about 18 
counties. If you have an opportunity, Encourage  stations to participate 
in the drill when it does occur. If I get any more information I will 
pass it along.

Best regards,

Steve Bellner / W8TER
419-367-1200