Intermountain Press Release

Orem, Utah—When disaster strikes, Orem Community Hospital is now even better prepared than ever to serve residents in the surrounding communities. The Intermountain Healthcare hospital now has the ability to respond to disasters involving hazardous materials - something it hasn't been able to do in the past.

The hospital recently received an extensive shipment of supplies from the Department of Homeland Security, according to Tom Sant, manager of the Emergency department. That shipment included a decontamination tent, isolation equipment and an enclosed trailer to house everything.

"We've always been prepared to respond to mass casualty and natural disaster situations. But for the first time, we now have the ability to respond to disasters involving a wide range of chemicals and even bioterrorism agents," said Sant.

The decontamination tent comes with all the necessary plumbing equipment as well as water and air heaters. Specially-designed HEPA filters will also prevent contaminants from escaping the tent.

Over the next several months, the hospital will identify and train a decontamination team, Sant said. These team members will learn the ins and outs of working with the tent as well as treat patients while wearing the Tyvek isolation suits, gloves and boots that will protect them from any exposure to contaminants. Similar teams and equipment are in place at American Fork Hospital and Utah Valley Regional Medical Center, also Intermountain Healthcare facilities.

"Orem Community Hospital has been a vital part of this city for 25 years now and it's very important to us to be able to support our community in all types of disaster situations," said Gail McGuill, Orem Community Hospital administrator.