UGA CERT Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Sep 12, 2008 - 8:35:22 AM

The Office of Security and Emergency Preparedness (OSEP) manages the UGA Community Emergency Response Team (UGA CERT)program.

Many questions about the UGA CERT program can be answered with these Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), but if you have additional questions, please call the Office of Security and Emergency Preparedness at (706)542-5845 or email OSEP at osep@uga.edu

• What is UGA CERT?
• What are the benefits of participating in the program?   
• Who can participate in the program?
• What classes are involved in the program?
• How do I register for the program?
• What is the time commitment associated with UGA CERT?
• How will I know when UGA CERT training classes are scheduled?
• Why do I have to take the entire series of training classes?
• Will I get a certificate for completing the program?
• Why is a background investigation required for the program participants?
• Who maintains the training records?
• Who do I contact if I have any questions about the UGA CERT program?

• What is UGA CERT?

The intent of the UGA Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program is to educate the University community (faculty, staff and students) about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact the campus. Specifically, the program will provide training in basic disaster response skills.

What are the benefits of participating in the program?

Some benefits of participating in the program are: enhanced and consistent training; working knowledge of response procedures during an emergency; opportunity to assist with campus drills, exercises and other activities. Participants will receive free backpack containing emergency preparedness equipment. Upon completing the program, participants will be invited to attend a formal graduation ceremony and receive a certificate of completion.

Who can participate in the program?

UGA CERT is a campus program. UGA students, faculty and staff can participate in the program.

What classes are involved in the program?

Classes include: fire safety, disaster medical operations, light search and rescue, CERT organization, disaster psychology, terrorism preparedness, basic first aid as well as a "hands on" practice during a simulated emergency exercise.

How do I register for the program?

A registration link (using UGA MYId) is provided on OSEP's homepage www.osep.uga.edu under  the "OSEP Upcoming Classes" section when registration is open for a particular UGA CERT class.

What is the time commitment associated with UGA CERT?

UGA CERT participants are required to attend a  weekly 2.5 hour class for 7 weeks.

How will I know when UGA CERT training classes are scheduled?

Class details (date, time, place) will be posted on OSEP's website www.osep.uga.edu as they become available. Check the site often for class information, wait list information and class schedules.

Why do I have to take the entire series of training classes?

Training classes are designed to provide basic skills in various areas that will assist the UGA CERT participants in their reaction to natural disasters and other large emergencies on campus. It is important that UGA CERT participants complete all classes in the series.

Will I get a certificate for completing the program?

Yes, certificates will be awarded during a formal graduation ceremony held at the end of the program.

Why is a background investigation required for the program participants?

A background investigation will be conducted on all applicants to determine eligibility in the program.

Who maintains the training records?

Training records are maintained by the Office of Security and Emergency Preparedness.

Who pays for this program?

The program expenses are minimal. UGA administers the program under the Athens-Clarke County Fire and Emergency Services CERT Grant received from the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA).

What is OSEP's role in the UGA CERT program?

The UGA CERT program is an extension of the Athens-Clarke County CERT program. OSEP is responsible for organizing UGA's program which includes instructor selection, participant selection, site coordination and organizing and utilizing UGA CERT members in drills, exercises and other campus events.

Who do I contact if I have any questions about the UGA CERT program?

Contact the Office of Security and Emergency Preparedness (OSEP) by phone (706) 542-5845, fax (706)542-4664 or email osep@uga.edu.