Klamath Falls, Ore. — Sky Lakes Medical Center is being recognized for its exceptional commitment to emergency preparedness, safety, and coordinated response—ensuring the community is ready for any situation.
Following a recent hazardous materials training exercise, regional emergency preparedness leaders praised Sky Lakes teams for their high level of coordination, training, and execution. The exercise highlighted the organization’s proactive approach to keeping patients, staff, and the community safe in the event of an emergency.
“Our teams train year-round for scenarios we hope never happen—but are fully prepared to respond to at a moment’s notice,” said Stacey Holmes, Director of Emergency and Trauma Services at Sky Lakes Medical Center. “This recognition reflects the dedication and professionalism of our staff, who are committed to delivering safe, efficient care under any circumstances.”
One standout element of the exercise was Sky Lakes’ innovative two-tent decontamination process, designed to streamline care and reduce response time while maintaining cost efficiency. This approach has been identified as a best practice that could be replicated across the region.
The recognition also highlighted the tremendous work of Sky Lakes’ Safety and Security team, whose leadership and collaboration have played a major role in strengthening emergency preparedness processes across the organization. Alongside Mark Shae, the team has led ongoing training efforts, refined response protocols, and helped build a culture of readiness that ensures staff are prepared to respond quickly and effectively during emergencies.
“This level of preparedness doesn’t happen by accident,” Holmes added. “It’s the result of ongoing training, teamwork, and a shared commitment to safety.”
Sky Lakes Medical Center continues to invest in advanced training, equipment, and partnerships to ensure readiness for a wide range of emergencies—from natural disasters to hazardous material incidents—reinforcing its role as a trusted healthcare provider for the Klamath Basin.
