Contact:

Amy Massimo

Director, Public Affairs

(845) 348-2773

massimoa@nyackhospital.org

Nyack, NY – May 28, 2010 – On Saturday, May 22, Nyack Hospital hosted its Annual Emergency Preparedness Drill to review and evaluate emergency procedures and processes.  The drill was conducted in conjunction with the Orangetown and Clarkstown Police, Rockland County Sheriff's Department, Rockland County SWAT team, Nyack Fire Department, Rockland County EMS, Rockland Mobile Care, Rockland County Office of Emergency Management, Rockland Paramedic Services and the New York State Department of Health.

This year, the drill consisted of a hostage situation originating in the Emergency Department, and involved setting up the decontamination unit, relocating the emergency room, working with multiple agencies in the county in a joint command center, and treating multiple gunshot victims.  

The drill was led by Walter Dusseldorp, Safety Officer at Nyack Hospital.  “Working alongside such talented and dedicated emergency personnel in Rockland County, our patients can rest assured knowing that we are collectively working for a “safer tomorrow,” stated Mr. Dusseldorp.  He continued, “We thank them for their commitment to our community and are proud to be part of this multi-agency program.