Established in 2002 following the tragic events of September 11, 2001, the University of Georgia Office of Emergency Preparedness (formerly the 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 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 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
- Develops, tests, reviews, revises and distributes the Campus Emergency Management Plan, pandemic influenza response Plan, Pre-Disaster Hazard Mitigation Plan, and other emergency plans as warranted
- Oversees the management of the UGAAlert system, the University’s emergency mass notification system, UGAAlert Desktop, and other campus emergency notification methods
- Manages the Building Safety and Security Representatives (BSSR) Program and provides emergency planning guidance and training
- Activates and manages the University’s Emergency Operations Center in the event of a large-scale emergency
- Oversees UGA’s departmental business continuity plans
- Monitors campus-wide compliance with the National Incident Management System (NIMS) regulations
- Manages the UGA’s Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and Bleeding Control Programs
- Provides oversight for the University’s Emergency Evacuation Chair Program
- Coordinates the campus Community Emergency Response Team (UGA CERT) and the Medical Reserve Corps (UGA MRC) volunteer programs
- Coordinates the OEP Student Ambassador Program and hosts student interns
- Develops, conducts, and coordinates drills and exercises including community-wide exercises, campus exercises, building drills, and departmental exercises (tabletop, functional and full-scale)
- Conducts risk assessments and develops departmental and site-specific emergency plans for Athens locations, satellite campuses and research sites
- Provides training and information on a variety of emergency preparedness topics
- Investigates, develops, and implements UGA policies and procedures related to emergency preparedness issues
- Coordinates campus events to highlight emergency preparedness and safety
- Manages the Kassinger Scholarship program
