Event focuses on disaster plans

Monday's disaster planning meeting held at the Edelman warehouse in Fairbury, photo provided.

A disaster could happen anywhere.  That’s why an emergency planning meeting was held earlier this week in Fairbury with more than 70 in attendance.

“Our numbers keep growing,” said Fairbury ESDA Director Deb Moran, referring to the annual meeting.

Those attending Monday’s event at the Edelman warehouse include Public Health, SECLAS, Fairbury Fire, the mayor, council members, city staff and Red Cross volunteers.

“I have volunteers who sign up just to be volunteers in case of a disaster in Fairbury or the surrounding area,” explained Moran.

Others in attendance included county office holders, Matt Curl from Fairbury Speedway, Fairview Haven representatives and Harvest Call volunteers.

The idea for the meeting started years ago since Moran wanted to get everyone on the same page in the event of a disaster.

Jeremy Stoller says SELCAS is the first phase of a disaster involving ESDA. This also includes response from firefighters, police and city departments.

“It stretches out so far beyond that with cleanup,” notes Stoller.

One of the biggest events in the area each year is the Prairie Dirt Classic at Fairbury Speedway. A couple of years ago, there were several medical calls at the track all at the same time due to the heat.

“We can take care of anything from a few medicals where our ambulances can handle it to something catastrophic,” added Stoller.

More resources can be called in as needed depending on the type and size of a disaster.

Moran considers Monday’s meeting successful. She announced her retirement from the Fairbury ESDA role, though she will remain a Red Cross volunteer.