ROCKFORD, Ill (WREX) — Emergency preparedness is a top priority for local organizations working together to ensure communities are ready for any crisis. A recent pop-up clinic at Mercy Health demonstrated the importance of collaboration among first responders and medical staff.

The Northwest Illinois Preparedness and Response Coalition, through events like these, aims to build a more resilient region. The coalition focuses on creating partnerships before disasters occur.

"We have a saying in emergency management that the time of the disaster is not time to exchange business cards," Tim Conley said. "So one of the best things we're getting at this today is emergency managers from all the partner organizations, healthcare providers, collaborating, working together."

Conley explained that

See Full Page