Transcript of Continuity and U.mov

       Welcome to your continuity connection. Disaster and  emergencies can happen with or  without warning.  9/11 proved it and Hurricane Katrina drove the point home. Life, is unpredictable. You have a daily routine, you think you're organized, systems are in place. Out of nowhere  someone or something throws you and all your coworkers a curveball. But the government needs to keep working no matter what happens. Is your agency or department prepared to function after a crisis? How does your office plan to continue  operating if a disaster occurs? What does the term COOP mean to you? COOP stands for Continuity Of OPerations. Some organizations call it continuity of government. It's basically a workplace plan to remain in business following  unfortunate events that can and do strike us. They can be natural hazards such as hurricanes, earthquakes or floods. Manmade hazards like fires an accidental explosion or hazmat spills. Technological hazards, like a computer virus that damages your network. Maybe even the pandemic flu or national security emergencies like a dirty bomb going off and contaminating a wide area.  The most important to know about continuity planning is that you gotta do it. It's good business practice. An important insurance policy for your workplace, your job, and for the public you serve. If fact it's required for the federal government.  And most states have continuity of operations plans. After Katrina  many cities also are developing continuity plans. It's this kind of planning ahead that will ensure your government office does not fall victim to an emergency, but can continue to deliver the important services to the public. So what should be included  in continuity programs and plans? Some of the most critical things are: Identifying what essential functions need to continue, Detailing procedures for succession to leadership positions, Protecting vital records and databases. Ensuring  communications are possible, and even operating out of alternate work locations. Your department or agencies essential functions and activities must continue following an emergency or disaster. Adequate and thorough continuity  planning is important to you and the public you serve. To find out more about continuity of operations start with your supervisor or visit FEMA.gov and search on the term COOP. Thanks for listening, and remember make the continuity connection.