Working Together for a Safer Tomorrow: Elliot Health System's Year-Round Emergency Preparedness Efforts

August is Emergency Preparedness Month, but at Elliot Health System, preparedness is a year-round commitment. Creating a safe environment for patients, visitors, and team members requires ongoing training, planning, and collaboration. Through regular education, exercises, and engagement with public safety professionals, Elliot continues to strengthen its culture of readiness across the health system. 

One example of that commitment is the organization's ongoing collaboration with the Manchester Police Department through the provision of Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events (CRASE) training available to team members and volunteers. The training is tailored to the healthcare environment and focuses on helping participants better understand emergency preparedness and personal safety.  

Since 2022, Manchester Police Officer, Nathan Lindstad, has led more than 40 CRASE trainings with Elliot. Since that time more than 1,000 team members or volunteers have participated in the training program.  

"Preparedness is about building awareness, confidence, and readiness," said Kevin Healey, Elliot Health System's emergency management director. "The more opportunities people have to learn and practice, the better prepared they are to respond to unexpected situations," Healey added.  

Throughout the year, team members and senior leaders also participate in educational programs, tabletop exercises, and drills that help reinforce emergency response procedures and strengthen communication across departments. As Elliot continues to grow, our security and emergency management teams continue to work alongside local, state, and federal agencies to review plans, conduct assessments, tailor training exercises, and share expertise aimed at enhancing safety across its facilities and locations.  

Every training session, exercise, and collaboration contributes to a safer environment for patients, visitors, and team members alike. This Emergency Preparedness Month, we recognize the dedication of the many individuals who help keep safety front and center every day and reinforce our shared commitment to the communities we serve.