Rescue Riders plan preparedness drill Sept. 15

The Kane County Medical Reserve Corps will hold its third Rescue Riders preparedness ride Sept. 15 to observe National Preparedness Month.

The ride is free and open to everyone regardless of affiliation, prior training or certification. Although primarily geared toward motorcyclists, drivers as well as riders are encouraged to participate.

A volunteer group, the corps provides a way to transport people and supplies during an emergency to locations where ordinary vehicles can't maneuver.

The drill, which will simulate conditions following a tornado, will be conducted rain or shine.

Riders will stop at pre-selected "disaster scenes" to practice first aid and emergency response skills.

Joining the corps will be the Illinois Medical Emergency Response Team, Illinois Nurse Volunteer Emergency Needs Team, Amateur Radio Emergency Service and the Fox River Chapter of the American Red Cross. The Boy Scouts of America will act as patients.

Drill participants will be trained in emergency response techniques. They also will receive a free T-shirt, food, refreshments and raffle tickets.

Registration for the ride begins at 8:30 a.m. at the Kane County Health Department, 1240 N. Highland Ave., Aurora. To preregister, call (630) 444-3121 or go online to www.rescueriders.org.