ABOUT OUR OFFICE

Contact Information: The Office of Security & Emergency Preparedness Hodgson Oil Building, Suite 200 South 286 Oconee Street Athens, Georgia 30602-1977 Phone (706)542-5845 | FAX (706)542-4664 Email osep@uga.edu Staff Directory: Steven Harris, Director  John Newton, Emergency Operations Coordinator Pete Golden, Emergency Operations Coordinator June Oliver, Administrative Specialist Frances White, Administrative Associate   About the Office of Security & Emergency Preparedness Established in 2002 following the tragic events of September 11, 2001, the University of Georgia Office of Security & Emergency Preparedness provides a comprehensive security and emergency management program for the University of Georgia in order to save lives, protect property, promote continuity of operations, and reduce the overall effects of large-scale disasters. Vision Statement The University of Georgia community will be prepared to respond effectively to large-scale emergencies in order to eliminate or mitigate the loss of life and property. Mission Statement Our mission is to provide a comprehensive security and emergency management program for the University of Georgia in order to save lives, protect property, promote continuity of operations, and reduce the overall effects of large-scale disasters. Values The University of Georgia Office of Security and Emergency Preparedness Recognizes that large-scale disasters are catastrophic and elimination of all risk and potential devastation is not an attainable goal; however, while preparing for worst case scenarios, keeps the protection of life as the primary objective. Acknowledges the University of Georgia’s public outreach and community service role and understands the University’ vast resources may be activated during large-scale emergencies affecting other communities throughout the state and nation. Develops plans to enhance performance and minimize disruption of services during these unusual activations of UGA facilities, staff, and resources. Realizes emergencies do not occur in a vacuum and acknowledge an obligation to, and reliance on, emergency responders as well as citizens from other University departments and the local, state, and national community. Willingly shares expertise and fosters good relationships with all entities. Understands the University of Georgia student population may require extra guidance in preparing for and responding to emergencies because of their limited life experiences and takes this responsibility seriously. Engages students in finding creative ways to reach other students. Strives to find the most cost effective methods of accomplishing objectives by being open to new technologies and initiating research and development of solutions appropriate for the University’s needs. Programs and Services The University of Georgia Office of Security and Emergency Preparedness Develops, tests, reviews, revises, and distributes the University’s overall emergency plan Activates and manages the University’s Emergency Operations Center in the event of a large-scale emergency Coordinates the setup and activation of emergency shelters utilizing UGA facilities Assesses threats and implements safeguards based on current trends and events Conducts risk assessments and develops departmental and site specific emergency plans for Athens locations and off-campus locations Maintains a database of emergency responders and building safety representatives and provides information, training, and recordkeeping in compliance with NIMS requirements Designs, develops, and delivers training, periodic newsletters and bulletins, and other informational brochures for students, faculty, and staff on recognizing, preparing for, and responding appropriately to natural and man-made disasters and emergencies Maintains a dynamic website for communicating timely information to the University community Researches and recommends emergency preparedness enhancement resources Investigates, develops, and implements UGA policies and procedures related to security and emergency preparedness issues Coordinates periodic campus events to highlight emergency preparedness and security awareness Serves on campus, University System, local, state, and national homeland security and emergency preparedness committees Coordinates on-campus community service volunteer classes to encourage participation by faculty, staff, and students Encourages a service-learning attitude among University students

Emergency Operations:

The Emergency Operations Manager position and associated duties were transferred from the Environmental Safety Division to the Office of Security
Preparedness in August 2005.

The transfer of the emergency operations function will enable the Office of Security & Emergency Preparedness to work with multiple campus departments to provide a more comprehensive large scale emergency preparedness plan for the University community.

The Office of Security & Emergency Preparedness website is now the official source for information regarding the University’s overall emergency operations plan and other emergency planning and mitigation services (other than information technology plans which fall under the Office of Information Security).

Emergency Operations is tasked with creating a viable emergency response capability for the University in the event of a large scale event. The types of events are both manmade and natural covering everything from tornados, ice storms, and fires to hazardous materials releases. A basic emergency response plan for the campus is available.

Services Provided

• Consultation on individual departmental emergency plans
• Liaison with city/county and state emergency units to develop support functions on campus
• Emergency response training and coordination of tabletop and mock drills
• Coordination and development of the University’s emergency response
• Production and distribution of the University’s emergency response plan

The Office of Security and Emergency Preparedness offers training to university departments in basic emergency preparedness, emergency procedures (based on departmental Emergency Operations Plan), and various terrorism related topics. If your department is interested in this service, please print the training form (available on the "Request for Training Form" link at the bottom of the page), fill  it out, and fax or mail to us. You may call 706-542-5845 for further information.