The new Adams County EMS mass casualty unit, acquired through a federal grant and re-lettered with support from Adams County Regional Medical Center, is equipped to treat up to 100 patients during large-scale emergencies and can serve as a mobile command or dispatch center. (Photo by Ryan Applegate)
By Ryan Applegate
People’s Defender
Adams County EMS is now equipped with a powerful new tool that could play a critical role in saving lives during large-scale emergencies: a mass casualty unit capable of treating up to 100 patients. Thanks to a federal grant facilitated by the Ohio Department of Transportation and FEMA, the trailer was obtained at no cost to local taxpayers, marking a major milestone for emergency preparedness in the county.
EMS Chief Dusty McCleese described the acquisition as both a fortunate opportunity and a strategic move for Adams County’s emergency response efforts. “We received this trailer through a grant—it was completely free to us,” McCleese said. “The only cost we had was for re-lettering it, and Adams County Regional Medical Center stepped in to cover that in exchange for having their name on it. It’s been 100% grant funded. There is no local tax dollars involved.”
Originally stationed in Miami Township in Clermont County, the unit is one of six that had been serving the southwestern Ohio area. With no similar resource nearby, FEMA approved relocating one unit to Adams County, improving regional preparedness in the event of disasters such as mass shootings, industrial accidents, or even a catastrophic amusement ride malfunction at a fair.
“This unit is designed to respond to incidents involving large numbers of patients. Something like a roller coaster accident or an active shooter situation—it’s made for that,” McCleese explained. “It was part of a program put in place after 9/11 to help regions respond to mass casualty incidents. Our hope is we never have to use it, but we’re very fortunate to have it available.”
The mass casualty trailer is stocked with trauma supplies including oxygen, backboards, cervical collars, and other basic life support gear. It’s also equipped with a range of practical necessities like toiletries and diapers—items that may be needed during long-duration events such as natural disasters or prolonged searches. The setup even includes infant-specific supplies, underscoring its purpose as a truly comprehensive mobile aid station.
“There aren’t any medications on board yet,” McCleese added, “but we’re working on getting the drug license updated so we can include some pharmaceuticals in the future.”
One of the trailer’s strengths is its versatility. It includes a repurposed gator vehicle that can be used to reach people injured in remote areas, like those involved in tree stand accidents during hunting season. The team has also placed an existing golf cart inside for similar uses. In addition to its medical functions, the trailer can serve as a mobile command center or even a temporary dispatch hub if emergency services in West Union are disrupted.
“We’ve spoken with the Sheriff’s Department about using it in search efforts,” McCleese said. “If someone is missing in the woods for several hours or even days, we can bring this unit out as a mobile command post. It has power, climate control, and space for personnel to work. It’s ready to go.”
Another critical role the unit is expected to play involves the county’s Rescue Task Force (RTF), an initiative created in the wake of the Columbine tragedy to improve EMS response during active shooter situations. The RTF concept involves EMS professionals working in coordination with law enforcement to reach and treat injured victims in a warm zone—areas that are secure but still potentially dangerous.
“The Rescue Task Force lets us go in with law enforcement to treat people in active shooter scenarios,” McCleese explained. “We received ballistic vests and some specialized equipment through another grant to support that program. This trailer gives us a great staging area and the resources to make that response safer and more efficient.”
Perhaps one of the most strategic advantages of having the trailer is that it opens doors to additional federal grant opportunities. Because Adams County now has a FEMA-approved asset, they are eligible to apply for other types of emergency preparedness funding.
“This was our foot in the door for more federal grants,” McCleese said. “And honestly, who doesn’t love free money from the government when it helps take care of the community? That’s the whole goal—making sure we’re ready for anything and doing it without putting a burden on the taxpayers.”
Beyond its immediate uses within Adams County, the trailer can also be deployed to assist in other areas. Should a mass casualty event occur in Hillsboro or Columbus, for example, the trailer can be sent with just a single staff member. Its modular design and self-contained systems mean it doesn’t require a large team to operate initially, allowing Adams County to contribute regionally without depleting local resources.
“We can send it wherever it’s needed,” McCleese said. “But even if it never leaves the county, it’ll still be used here. Whether it’s for a long-term search, storm recovery, or just a large public event, it adds flexibility and capability that we didn’t have before.”
The mass casualty unit arrived in Adams County in June, and although it’s a recent addition, McCleese said discussions are already underway about how to incorporate it into broader public safety plans. Local EMS agencies are coordinating to ensure the unit is accessible and well-integrated with other emergency resources in the county.
“There are three EMS agencies in this county and we’re all working together on this,” McCleese said. “This isn’t just for Adams County EMS—it’s for the whole community. We’re using this as a way to make sure we’re moving forward, that we’re reaching for every possible advantage to keep people safe.”
While no one hopes for a scenario that would require the full deployment of a mass casualty trailer, its presence in Adams County is a reassuring sign that local officials are planning ahead—and doing so in a way that brings modern tools to rural settings without increasing the financial burden on residents.
“It’s about being prepared,” McCleese said. “This is a major asset for our county. We’re lucky to have it—and now it’s here, ready to serve.”
