DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF A COMPREHENSIVE UTILITY SECURITY AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE PROGRAM IN AUGUSTA-RICHMOND COUNTY, GEORGIA

The Augusta Utilities Department (AUD), located in Augusta-Richmond County, Georgia, has developed and implemented a comprehensive program for security and emergency response. This program serves as a model for an effective and comprehensive Security and Emergency Response Program – in planning, practice, and real world application. This presentation discusses development of AUD's program, model strategic approach over time, proven successes of program model implementation, and future plans for the program. Through application of this program model, AUD has effectively heightened stakeholder education and awareness, increased asset protection and redundancy, initiated practical field and office protocols, prevented and/or mitigated potential incidents, and reduced potential risks and consequences.