The Office of National Security Coordination (DHS-FEMA) in collaboration with GSA has created a new course: Continuity of Operations Manager's Training.

This three-day course covers the new Federal Preparedness Circular (FPC) 65 and addresses these key components:

• Elements of a viable COOP capability;
• Essential functions;
• Delegations of authority;
• Orders of succession;
• Family support plan;
• Alternate facilities information; and
• Vital records.

For more information, please contact either GSA's Office of Emergency Management at (202) 219-3259 or the Department of Homeland Security's Office of National Security Coordination at (202) 646-4282 or (202) 646-4128. Additionally, this course is currently under development and should be offered through the web at Emergency Management Institute's website http://training.fema.gov/EMIWeb/

Procuring Training

COOP plans are required for federal executive branch departments and agencies. GSA has developed a Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) that can be used to procure training necessary for the development of a compliant plan.

The Office of Emergency Management can assist federal agencies in utilizing the COOP BPA, and answer related questions.