Piscataquis County organizations and agencies hold tabletop exercise to prepare for eclipse

Date: 10/25/2023

More than two dozen individuals representing police, fire, healthcare, emergency management, and emergency medical services (EMS) gathered at the Center Theatre in Dover-Foxcroft on October 24, 2023 for a tabletop exercise to prepare for the influx of people expected to visit Piscataquis County to view the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024.

The exercise was led by Northern Light CA Dean and Mayo Hospitals.

Attendees identified threats and challenges that may impact our region, including accidents and injuries that could strain hospitals, communication network congestion, traffic gridlock, increased airplane traffic, and more. The group then began to develop action plans to address the most important concerns.

“Lots of businesses and organizations, including hospitals and other healthcare providers, police and fire, schools, grocery stores, hotels, gas stations, and others will be affected in some way,” says Nikki Chadwick, RN, MSN, CPHQ, vice president of quality and education, Northern Light Mayo Hospital. “By preparing in advance, we can ensure the experience is as smooth and safe as possible for our visitors as well as for our regional businesses and organizations.”

The Piscataquis County Emergency Management Agency, Northern Light CA Dean and Mayo Hospitals, local and regional police and fire, and regional EMS agencies will continue to work together to prepare for the eclipse. The hospitals will distribute glasses and provide education to ensure that people can view the eclipse safety.

“While we’re going to work hard to prepare for whatever could come our way, we’re also going to engage our community and have some fun,” adds Chadwick.