By Dan Hounsell

Healthcare facilities managers need to plan and prepare for a host of potential crises that can strike unexpectedly, from power outages and shootings to floods and blizzards. For managers with hospitals in certain parts of the country, the list of possible threats also includes wildfires.

Residents near the hospital in South Lake Tahoe might have heard some extra sirens from first responders and see some commotion recently as Barton Health conducted a wildfire evacuation drill, according to South Tahoe Now.

As wildfire season approaches, it is essential that hospital staff are prepared to respond to emergency situations as part of safety and crisis planning and preparation, says Thea Hardy, Barton's public relations specialist.

The training took place at Barton Hospital. Staff and designated actors conducted the drill primarily within the hospital campus, creating little to no impact on surrounding businesses and residents.