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NEWS RELEASE: GlobalOptions Group Awarded Contract to Provide Strategic Advisory Services to Purple Tree Technologies

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 15:32:36 GMT

GlobalOptions Group Awarded Contract to Provide Strategic Advisory Services to Purple Tree Technologies

Breakthrough Emergency Alert Response System Introduced to

Education and Community Level Markets

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 26, 2008--GlobalOptions Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: GLOI), a leading provider of domestic and international risk management services, today announced that its Crisis Management and Preparedness Services unit, James Lee Witt Associates (JLWA), has been retained by Purple Tree Technologies, Inc., to provide strategic advisory services over the course of the next year.

James Lee Witt Associates will assist Purple Tree Technologies, a leader in developing advanced emergency alert response systems, in identifying target sectors and specific opportunities in communities where this technology would be most vital with an emphasis on corporate and educational environments. JLWA's team members possess unique experience and hands-on knowledge of partnership development and coalition building ability.

"When an emergency strikes, one of the most critical factors in saving lives is immediate, reliable notification so that people can stay informed and put emergency plans into action," said James Lee Witt, Chief Executive Officer of JLWA. "Purple Tree has developed an interoperable system that can transmit geo-specific emergency alerts in a matter of seconds and is not dependent on Internet-based text messaging or other signal redistribution systems that can interfere with the speed of delivery."

A small key fob developed by Purple Tree (approximately the size of a car key) can be used as a keychain and carried by individuals in their pockets, backpacks, purses or in their vehicles. When an emergency alert is sent, the device will display a warning light and text-screen message within seconds of the initial transmission.

"We are thrilled to have the support of James Lee Witt and his team in bringing this new technology to market," said Richard A. Happel, CEO of Purple Tree Technologies.

"We are confident that Purple Tree's emergency response system can make a significant contribution in preparing communities, campuses and businesses for emergencies. James Lee Witt Associates has the experience, depth of knowledge and proven expertise to move this kind of technology forward in educational environments and at the community level where it can protect and save lives."

"With recent events around the country, such as tornadoes, hurricanes, and school shootings, this could not be a better time to promote the adoption of Purple Tree's emergency alert response technology," said Dr. Harvey Schiller, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, GlobalOptions Group, Inc. "It's smart technology and we look forward to working with Purple Tree and communities and campuses throughout the U.S. to face these types of emergencies head on."

GlobalOptions Group

GlobalOptions Group, with headquarters in New York City and offices in 16 cities, is a provider of high-end risk assessment and mitigation services to Fortune 1000 corporations, governmental organizations and high-profile individuals throughout the world. GlobalOptions Group's services currently include risk management and security, investigations and litigation support, and crisis management. These engagements take GlobalOptions Group staff around the world and are typically highly-sensitive engagements where GlobalOptions Group is interacting with senior leaders in corporations and governments. Its overall mission is to identify, evaluate, assess, prevent and correct issues that may threaten people, organizations or strategic initiatives for corporations or governments. Additional information can be found at www.globaloptionsgroup.com.

Purple Tree Technologies, Inc.

Purple Tree Technologies, Inc., a privately held company based in Columbia, Missouri, is the developer of the only emergency alert response system technology capable of broadcasting geo-specific emergency alerts to freestanding electronic fobs (e-Fobs) the size of a key and through cell phone networks. This interoperable system is capable of sending alerts in a matter of seconds to individuals warning them of impending emergencies such as tornadoes, school violence, terrorist threats and child abductions. Purple Tree Technologies was founded in 2001 by Dr. Maurice Karl, a veteran electrical engineer and physical chemist. For more information, visit www.purpletreetechnologies.com

Statements in this press release regarding the company's business that are not historical facts are "forward-looking statements" that involve risks and uncertainties. The company wishes to caution readers not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, which statements are made pursuant to the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1994, and as such, speak only as of the date made. To the extent the content of this press release includes forward-looking statements, they involve various risks and uncertainties including the successful integration of acquired businesses and revenue run rates.

Certain of these risks and uncertainties will be described in greater detail in GlobalOptions Group's' filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. GlobalOptions Group is under no obligation to (and expressly disclaims any such obligation to) update or alter its forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

NEWS RELEASE: GlobalOptions Group Announces Additions and Promotions across its Senior Management Team

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 15:32:31 GMT

GlobalOptions Group Announces Additions and Promotions across

its Senior Management Team

Key Additions to its Bode Technology Group and Corporate Operations

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 19, 2008--GlobalOptions Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: GLOI), a leading provider of domestic and international risk management services, announced several significant new hires and promotions among its senior management team.

GlobalOptions Group announced the following additions:

-- Barry S. Watson was retained as President of GlobalOptions Group's Bode Technology Group

-- Ken Burris joins as Chief Operating Officer of the GlobalOptions Group's Crisis Management and Preparedness unit

-- Robert Toro joins the company as Chief Accounting Officer of GlobalOptions Group

Several promotions were also announced:

-- Barry Scanlon and Mark Merritt have been promoted to Co-President positions of GlobalOptions Group's Crisis Management & Preparedness unit.

-- Frank Pinder was named Vice President of Business Development for GlobalOptions Group

"With these new additions and promotions across several business sectors, GlobalOptions has strengthened and expanded its management team to serve our growth as we move into the second phase of our strategy to build the business," said Dr. Harvey Schiller, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of GlobalOptions Group. "We are pleased to attract such a highly-qualified level of management leadership, experience and expertise, also recognizing those within the company who continue to excel. I'm confident all will contribute to our growth."

Barry Watson joins GlobalOptions Group as President of its Bode Technology Group with overall responsibility for managing and providing strategic oversight for one of the nation's leading providers of forensic DNA analysis. Mr. Watson brings 30 years of experience in performing, managing and directing government and commercial technical services and R&D development programs. Prior to joining Bode Technology, Mr. Watson founded aBear Solutions, LLC, an executive consulting firm offering expert advice in executive management, strategic planning, bid preparation, and mergers and acquisitions in the federal government services arena.

Ken Burris brings to the Crisis Management and Preparedness unit more than 35 years of experience. He is the former head of the National Fire Administration and served as the Director of FEMA's Region IV, which is responsible for the Southeastern United States. He was President of the Southeastern Association of Fire Chiefs, Treasurer of the International Association of Fire Chiefs and the Fire Chief in Marietta, Georgia.

Robert Toro joins GlobalOptions Group as Chief Accounting Officer, a new position for the Company. He has extensive experience and diversified expertise with mergers and acquisitions, public offerings, financings, and SEC and financial planning and reporting. Previously he was Senior Vice President, CFO of MEDIABAY, Inc., a public digital media, marketing and publishing company.

Barry Scanlon and Mark Merritt of GlobalOptions Group's Crisis Management & Preparedness unit have been promoted to Co-Presidents, new positions for the company. Both previously served as Senior Vice Presidents and founding Partners of James Lee Witt Associates. James Lee Witt retains the position of Chief Executive Officer of the Crisis & Preparedness unit.

Frank Pinder has been promoted to Vice President of Business Development of GlobalOptions Group. He was previously President of Hyperion Risk, which was acquired by GlobalOptions Group in 2006. He was instrumental in the development of the company's GlobalTrak(TM) software technology, which is used by clients to manage and track all of their risk management activities including insurance fraud claims. He was previously Chairman of Hyperion Risk, which merged with Confidential Business Resources to form GlobalOptions Group's Fraud & SIU Services.

About GlobalOptions Group, Inc.

GlobalOptions, with headquarters in New York City and offices in 16 cities, is an integrated provider of risk mitigation and management services to government entities, Fortune 1,000 corporations and high net-worth and high-profile individuals throughout the world. We enable clients to identify, assess and prevent natural and man-made threats to the well-being of individuals and the operations of governments and corporations. In addition, we assist our clients in recovering from the damages or losses resulting from the occurrence of acts of terror, natural disasters, fraud and other risks. Our services currently include risk management and security, investigations and litigation support, anti-fraud solutions and business intelligence, and crisis management and preparedness services. Additional information can be found at www.globaloptions.com.

Certain of these risks and uncertainties will be described in greater detail in GlobalOptions Group's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. GlobalOptions Group is under no obligation to (and expressly disclaims any such obligation to) update or alter its forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

CURRENT H1N1 FLU INFORMATION

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 15:32:32 GMT

By now, most people are aware that the current breaking national news story centers on the outbreak of the swine flu, its rapid increase, and its present swath through Mexico and the United States. The situation is certainly significant; while in need of monitoring, and a cause for serious concern, it is not a cause for panic. The World Health Organization raised the pandemic phase level to its highest level, Phase 6, indicating a global pandemic. This is its first designation of a global pandemic in 41 years. In order to lessen the impact of this pandemic, organizations and corporations as well as government entities can and should prepare for a swine flu event, as should schools, businesses and families.

James Lee Witt Associates (JLWA), a part of GlobalOptions, Inc., is a leading national crisis and emergency management support consulting firm that offers comprehensive emergency management services, with services to assist with preparations for multiple hazards, natural and man-made, and incorporating pandemic flu and other public health incidents.

What is Swine Flu?

According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC), swine flu is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that causes regular outbreaks in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. Swine flu viruses have been reported to spread from person-to-person, but in the past, this transmission was limited. In late March and early April 2008, cases of human infection with swine influenza A (H1N1) viruses were first reported in Southern California and near San Antonio, Texas. Other U.S. states have reported cases of swine flu infection in humans, and cases have been reported internationally, as well.

An updated case count of confirmed swine flu infections in the United States is kept at Center for Disease Control.

The CDC has determined that this swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is contagious and is spreading from human to human. However, at this time, it is not known how easily the virus spreads between people.

How can swine flu be prevented?

There are actions people can take to stay healthy; they are the same actions we are encouraged to take every day to prevent other illnesses such as the common cold, or the typical yearly flu:

· Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Properly dispose of the used tissue.

· Wash your hands often with soap and hot water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.

· Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth, to prevent the spread of germs.

· Avoid close contact with sick people.

· Influenza is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person, through coughing or sneezing of infected people. If you do get sick, the CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to prevent further contamination.

· Keep on hand a hygiene kit that includes the following items:

Anti-Microbial Alcohol Wipes (in addition to antiseptic wipes in First Aid Kit)
Non-Latex Gloves, in addition to those in First Aid Kit (readily available at paint supply and hardware stores)
Soapless/Waterless alcohol-based hand sanitizer
Paper face masks. (Readily available at paint supply and hardware stores)

INFLUENZA AWARENESS AND PREPARDNESS LINKS, AND PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS

H1N1 Tracker

Influenza Orientation Power Point

Readiness Guide For You and Your Family

Business, Enterprise and Organizational Considerations

Schools, Universities and College Considerations

For information specific to Higher Education please visit: CDC - H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) Infections Alert for Institutions of Higher Education

USE LINKS BELOW FOR CURRENT SITUATION STATUS UPDATES:

www.pandemicflu.gov. Federal government. Planning & preparedness outreach and awareness information, government alert phases and stages, control and management advice and traveler alerts and advice.

www.cdc.gov. Federal government. Planning & preparedness outreach and awareness information, government alert phases and stages, control and management advice and traveler alerts and advice

www.fema.gov. Federal government. Emergency planning, preparedness, response and recovery information.

www.hhs.gov. Federal government. Human health information.

www.who.int. World Health Organization – Information of pandemic for the world

www.un.int United Nations – Information related to Pandemic for countries throughout the world

www.worldbank.com Financial information related to pandemic

James Lee Witt Associates can assist your organization in preparing for a pandemic, by offering the following services:

· Quick plans for companies, schools, and universities

· Employee and Family Preparedness Guide/Toolkit

· Corporate and organizational preparedness campaign development

· Crisis Communication and Rapid Information Dissemination Capability standardization

· Key Action Guides for Business, Education and Government Continuity of Operations

· Quick training for executives, faculty, and employees on flu prevention and preparedness and key actions

· Planning for Pandemic and Business Continuity

· Continuity of Government Planning

· Safety Protocols and Support for International Study Abroad, Research and Business Operations

· On the ground and virtual emergency management support, providing crisis/emergency management response advisory capability

GW ANNOUNCES SAFETY AND SECURITY PLANS

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 15:32:32 GMT

May 6, 2009

MEDIA CONTACT: Tracy Schario
(202) 994-3566; tschario@gwu.edu

WASHINGTON--President Steven Knapp announced today a new organizational structure for safety and security at The George Washington University. The University had engaged James Lee Witt Associates to study the University's existing programs as well as the question of whether to arm the officers of the University Police Department (UPD). After a thorough examination of the Witt Associates report, the University has accepted the firm's recommendation not to arm University police, as well as the firm's recommendation to consolidate the University's safety and security programs into one organization reporting to a single senior administrator.

Under the new structure, all aspects of safety and security, including University Police, emergency management and the safety functions in risk management, will be brought together. These functions will report to a newly created position--Associate Vice President for Safety and Security, which in turn will report to the Senior Associate Vice President for Administration, currently Ed Schonfeld, in the Office of the Executive Vice President and Treasurer.

"This step will enhance the University's comprehensive approach to safety and security," said Dr. Knapp. "The thoughtful input Witt Associates received from many different constituencies was an important component of the study. We are moving quickly to implement this new structure and will immediately begin the process of recruiting an Associate Vice President for Safety and Security."

Witt Associates has well-established expertise in safety and security matters, and they received extensive input from the GW community, including senior administrators, UPD, faculty, students, the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), Foggy Bottom residential and business neighbors, and neighboring federal and non-governmental agencies. In addition to its main recommendations, Witt Associates offered additional suggestions, including ways of strengthening the relationship between UPD and MPD. These recommendations will be explored by the new Associate Vice President for Safety and Security.

GW Chief of Police Dolores Stafford commented, "I greatly appreciate that President Knapp considered my recommendation to look into the question of arming the police force. We had a candid discussion when he first came to campus about the issue. I am pleased that he and senior leadership conducted a thorough review by engaging a well-respected safety and security firm. I have read the report and will work to implement its recommendations for the safety and security of our community."

James Lee Witt Associates Vice President Charles Fisher said, "We want to congratulate President Knapp and the GW community for looking at arming in the context of the larger issue of safety and security programs on the GW campus. As we work with universities across the country, we find that each has a unique culture and circumstances. The solutions that GW is adopting are the right ones for GW at this time."

Located in the heart of the nation's capital, The George Washington University was created by an Act of Congress in 1821. Today, GW is the largest institution of higher education in the nation's capital. The university offers comprehensive programs of undergraduate and graduate liberal arts study as well as degree programs in medicine, public health, law, engineering, education, business, and international affairs. Each year, GW enrolls a diverse population of undergraduate, graduate, and professional students from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and more than 130 countries.

For more news about The George Washington University, visit the GW News Center at www.gwnewscenter.org.

JLWA’s Fisher Briefs NC Chamber on Pandemic Flu Planning

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 15:32:36 GMT

JLWA's Fisher Briefs NC Chamber on Pandemic Flu Planning

Offers Free Guide Online

May 8, 2009

Chapel Hill-Carrboro Chamber of Commerce members, including local businesses in the hospitality, social service, and technology fields, brushed up on emergency planning and pandemic preparedness in a briefing on May 8. The briefing included a presentation on emergency implications for business and public health recommendations in regard to H1N1 influenza.

Charlie Fisher, vice president of James Lee Witt Associates, a crisis management and emergency preparedness firm, and Donna King, director of health promotion and education services for the Orange County Health Department, led the presentation.

Pandemic flu is like a brush fire, Fisher said. "If you can get it stamped out early on through education, then you can go a long way toward stopping the spread of it."

"We don't want panic, but we don't want complacency," King said. "This is an equal opportunity virus." It can affect people regardless of ethnic group or age group, she said.

There is potential for 2 billion people world-wide to get the flu, Fisher said. But the threat is also an opportunity for you and your business to anticipate flu implications and plan for them, he said. "Think about this question: what if?" What if one-third of your employees were not able to come to work? What impact would that have on your business?

Fisher asked. Are your employees able to handle multiple jobs? Have they been trained to back up for someone else? Cross-train your employees and make sure that you communicate a clear chain of command in case an integral staff member is not able to come to work, Fisher advised.

"Put together a team of employees to look at these questions from a personnel standpoint," Fisher said. "You really want to have a written plan. It doesn't have to be a big book. The size and details of the plan will vary with the company's size."

Be sure to include appropriate contact information for your employees, suppliers and back-up suppliers. And outline your plans to communicate with employees in case of emergency. The most important thing, Fisher said, is to remind employees, "if you're sick, please stay home. Do not come to work. Do not threaten to infect other employees or your customers."

Planning for a pandemic is not very different from planning for a hurricane or any other natural disaster, Fisher said. In each case, you want to train pertinent employees and make sure that all employees are aware of your plan.

"In our community, there's quite a team of folks in the background working," King said. UNC Hospitals, public health officials, local utilities, the towns of Chapel Hill and Carrboro, emergency management, fire rescue and Chapel Hill- Carrboro City Schools communicate on a regular basis to ramp up their emergency preparedness plans, she said. Everyone should wash his or her hands frequently, cover his or her coughs and sneezes, and clean commonly touched surfaces every day, King said.

King reminded call participants that the Orange County Health Department and US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have basic posters on respiratory etiquette, the "stay at home message," and hand hygiene available online. She also encouraged participants to put together a kit for emergency preparedness for the home and office. Think about what you would need if you had to stay home for seven days, she said. And think about what your family would need if they had to stay home while you worked.

A pandemic preparedness Web guide, prepared by James Lee Witt Associates, is available online at

www.carolinachamber.org/news/pandemicguide.pdf.

The Chapel Hill-Carrboro Chamber of Commerce serves and advances the business interests of Chamber members and supports the mission of the Chamber Foundation for a Sustainable Community – to support the investment of business and community resources to promote the triple bottom line of community sustainability: environmental stewardship, social equity and economic prosperity. For more information, visit www.carolinachamber.org.

The mission of the Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau is to develop and coordinate visitor services in Orange County and to implement marketing programs that will enhance the economic activity and quality of life in the community. For more information, visit www.visitchapelhill.org.

Schools, Universities and College Considerations

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 15:32:33 GMT

As you have undoubtedly heard, human cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) virus infection have been identified in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the likely epicenter of the outbreak. As of April 27th, several other human cases are pending identification in countries outside of North America.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is working very closely with officials in the states where human cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) have been identified, as well as with health officials in Mexico, Canada and the World Health Organization. This is a very fluid and rapidly evolving situation.

Given the severity and changing nature of this situation, we would like to provide you with some key actions and considerations to assist you as you prepare your campuses for potential infection. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or if you need any assistance in your efforts.

Pandemic Flu Preparedness Resources

For Students, Faculty and Staff:

There are everyday actions people can take to stay healthy.

• Take common‐sense steps to limit the spread of germs – Make good hygiene a habit.

• Wash hands frequently with soap and warm water or anti‐bacterial wash.

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.

• Put used tissues in a waste basket.

• Cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve if you don't have a tissue.

• Clean your hands after coughing or sneezing. Use soap and warm water or an alcohol‐based hand cleaner.

Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

• Influenza is thought to spread mainly person‐to‐person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.

• If you get sick, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

Keep on hand a hygiene kit that includes the following items.

• Anti‐Microbial Alcohol Wipes (in addition to antiseptic wipes in First Aid Kit)

• Non‐Latex Gloves, in addition to those in First Aid Kit (readily available at paint supply and hardware stores)

• Soap less/Waterless alcohol‐based hand sanitizer

• Face masks. (available at drug or hardware stores)

For College and University Administration:

In the event of pandemic influenza, your administration will play a key role in protecting the health of students, faculty and staff as well as limiting the impacts to your neighboring community. A few key issues to consider may include:

• What is the institution's "telecommuting" policy? Who is authorized to activate this policy? What triggers the policies?

• Do you have MOUs and/or contracts in place for alternate work facilities in the event of a campus closure and business interruption?

• What communication methods are in place to notify your staff, faculty, students, parents and external stakeholders?

• Do you have a child care or senior center on your campus and if so, how are they incorporated into your planning process or notified of emergency situations?

• What are the travel policies during a pandemic flu? A potential outbreak?

• What are the college/university's policies for essential staff? When are the policies activated?

• Do your Human Resource policies address payroll and/or faculty, student and staff leave or prolonged absences? Account Receivables/Payables? Has the institution communicated its policies to staff, faculty and contractors?

• What is the institutions protocol for maintaining or suspending operations at its international program sites (including research and business operations)? How will the main campus work with international agencies to provide for the safety of its people?

• What will the university or college communicate to students, faculty, staff, vendors, partners, grant funders, donors, media and visitors? Where will the institution find credible information on the crisis?

• What are the federal, state and local regulations and reporting requirements?

• What core services and functions does the institution provide? How will they be protected and maintained during a pandemic flu?

• What are the institution's contingency plans for final exams and graduation?

• Will the institution restrict visitors on campus?

• How will the hospital, student health center or medical center monitor potential infections? Do they have the resources to activate in the event of a local outbreak or have the capacity to accommodate a "surge" at your health facility?

The administration may take the following steps to prepare for a pandemic flu:

• Monitor government and credible sources to determine influenza/pandemic alert level or threat.

• Identify your university or college pandemic coordinator and/or team with defined roles and responsibilities for preparedness and response planning.

• Make key notifications to your senior executives.

• Develop or review roles and authorities for emergency operations.

• Develop or review lines of succession for emergency operations.

• Develop or review your Continuity Plan and Strategies.

• Develop notification database of essential staff.

• Inform and update campus populations.

• Establish and monitor key relationships with local/state health and emergency management agencies.

You may be interested in these additional resources:

www.pandemicflu.gov. Federal government. Planning & preparedness outreach and awareness information, government alert phases and stages, control and management advice and traveler alerts and advice.

www.cdc.gov. Centers for Disease Control. Federal government. Planning & preparedness outreach and awareness information, government alert phases and stages, control and management advice and traveler alerts and advice

www.fema.gov. Federal Emergency Management Agency. Federal government. Emergency planning, preparedness, response and recovery information.

www.hhs.gov. Health and Human Services. Federal government. Human health information.

www.who.int. World Health Organization. Information of pandemic for the world

www.un.int. United Nations. Information related to Pandemic for countries throughout the world

www.worldbank.com. World Bank. Financial information related to pandemic

These materials have been prepared by James Lee Witt Associates for informational purposes only. In no way are they to be considered medical advice or advice regarding diagnosis or treatment and are not intended to take the place of advice or treatment from licensed healthcare professionals

Business, Enterprise and Organizational Considerations

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 15:32:41 GMT

As you have undoubtedly already heard, human cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) virus infection have been identified in the United States, Canada and in Mexico – which is the likely epicenter of the outbreak. As of this morning, several other human cases are pending identification in countries outside of North America.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is working very closely with officials in states where human cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) have been identified, as well as with health officials in Mexico, Canada and the World Health Organization. This is a very fluid and rapidly evolving situation.

James Lee Witt Associates (JLWA) works extensively with domestic and international governments, educational institutions, businesses and individuals to help them prepare for the possibility of an influenza pandemic. We have developed:

Comprehensive pandemic business continuity plans;
Alternative operational/workplace plans;
Key Action Guides for pandemic response;
Assessments of pandemic plans; and have
Developed and delivered training and exercise programs related to influenza pandemic preparedness, response and recovery.

Given the severity and rapidly changing nature of this situation, JLWA would like to provide you with some key actions and consideration to assist you or your organization with your planning and preparedness efforts. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or if we can be of additional service to you.

For Individuals:

There are everyday actions people can take to stay healthy.

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.

Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.
If you get sick, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

Keep on hand a hygiene kit that includes the following items.

Anti-Microbial Alcohol Wipes (in addition to antiseptic wipes in First Aid Kit)
Non-Latex Gloves, in addition to those in First Aid Kit (readily available at paint supply and hardware stores)
Soap less/Waterless alcohol-based hand sanitizer
Face masks. (available at drug or hardware stores)

For Business:

In the event of pandemic influenza, businesses will play a key role in protecting employees' health and safety as well as limiting the negative impact to the economy and society. Planning for influenza outbreak is critical and will assist businesses to effectively respond to and rapidly recover from the impacts of influenza pandemic.

Some key considerations include:

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT:

Monitor government and credible sources to determine influenza /pandemic alert level or threat.
Identify a pandemic coordinator and/or team with defined roles and responsibilities for preparedness and response planning.
Make key notifications to CEO/Executive Management Team/Board of Directors.
Develop or review delegations of authority for emergency operations
Develop or review orders of succession for emergency operations.
Develop or review Business Continuity Plan (BCP) management strategies.
Develop notification database of essential employees.
Inform & update employees.
Identify/activate corporate/company incident/event management team.
Establish and monitor key relationships with local/state health and emergency management agencies.
Perform ongoing situation status and analysis:
- www.pandemicflu.gov. Federal government. Planning & preparedness outreach and awareness information, government alert phases and stages, control and management advice and traveler alerts and advice.
- www.cdc.gov. Federal government. Planning & preparedness outreach and awareness information, government alert phases and stages, control and management advice and traveler alerts and advice
- www.fema.gov. Federal government. Emergency planning, preparedness, response and recovery information.
- www.hhs.gov. Federal government. Human health information.
- www.who.int. World Health Organization – Information of pandemic for the world
- www.un.int United Nations – Information related to Pandemic for countries throughout the world
- www.worldbank.com Financial information related to pandemic
Perform ongoing facility and business impact analysis.

HUMAN RESOURCES:

Establish personnel policies associated with alternative working conditions or telecommuting.
Review travel policies and implement as necessary travel restrictions or prohibitions.
Review leave polices.
Consider visitor interaction/restrictions.
Develop employee health monitoring procedures/program.
Develop and implement personal hygiene program and procure personal protective equipment (PPE).
Establish/enhance Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

COMMUNICATIONS:

Identify pre-pandemic, pandemic, and recovery stage intelligence sources for information regarding pandemic influenza.
Identify & establish relationship with key local and state public health and emergency management officials
Establish internal Pandemic Communications Team
Develop and prepare internal/external communications tools/crisis communications plan.
Establish and activate Website or intra-net site with key information and updates.
Notify and update employees, customers and business partners
Establish outreach & awareness for community, media, employees, customers.

BUSINESS SERVICES & OPERATIONS:

Identify critical functions, staff, training needs, equipment, services, data, and supplies.
Develop contingencies, capacity, and procedures.
Survey partners & customers for special needs, essential support or services.
Procure and distribute supplies & equipment.
Identify and/or activate alternative workplace infrastructure.
Establish facility health monitoring as appropriate or applicable.
Stockpile facility emergency supplies
Procure and distribute personal hygiene & PPE
Implement facility cleanliness procedures/policies.
Determine and establish equipment, supplies and data for essential business functions.
Implement social distancing procedures/polices as appropriate/applicable.
Prepare for potential or second and subsequent influenza pandemic outbreak "waves".

JAMES LEE WITT ASSOCIATES (JLWA):

If needed, James Lee Witt Associates can further assist your organization in preparing for a pandemic, by offering the following services:

Quick plans for companies or organizations.
Employee and Family Preparedness Guide/Toolkit
Corporate preparedness campaign development
Crisis Communication and Rapid Information Dissemination Capability standardization
Key Action Guides for Business, Education and Government Continuity of Operations
Quick training executives and employees on flu prevention and preparedness and key actions
Planning for Pandemic and Business Continuity
Continuity of Government Planning
On the ground and virtual emergency management support, providing crisis/emergency management response advisory capability.

Maine EMA PR: Witt to Deliver Keynote Address at Partners Conference

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 15:32:42 GMT

First Annual Maine Partners in Emergency Preparedness Conference

WHEN: Thursday, April 30 and Friday, May 1, 8:30 am to 4:00 pm

WHERE: Augusta Civic Center

WHAT: Two-day conference featuring wide range of workshops and information sessions on emergency preparedness for all hazards, with special tracks for hazardous materials response, communities, schools and business. Full schedule and more details available at: http://www.maine.gov/mema/prepare/prep_news.shtml?id=65695

* Media packets with up-to-the-minute conference schedule, room assignments and full programs will be available at the registration table.

HIGHLIGHTED EVENTS:

Thursday April 30
* 9:00 am: Keynote Speaker: James Lee Witt

James Lee Witt is the Chief Executive Officer of the crisis management and preparedness services consulting firm James Lee Witt Associates, a part of GlobalOptions Group. Mr. Witt served as FEMA Director from 1993 to 2001.

* 12:00 noon: Luncheon talk: State of Emergency Management in Maine, with Rob McAleer, MEMA Director

Friday, May 1
* 8:30 to 11:00 am: North Wing Parking Lot: 10th Annual Hazmat Team Challenge: Hazardous Materials Response Teams from across the state take part in an action-packed skills competition.

* 12:00 noon: Recognition of Maine Schools involved in special emergency preparedness programs/Presentation of Team Challenge Awards

All Day: Slate of workshops focused on school emergency planning. Over 100 school and public safety officials are registered for these workshops, which include a case study of the 2008 Stockton Springs hostage incident.

The Conference is a partnership among the State Emergency Response Commission, MEMA, and the Maine Association of Local Emergency Managers.

Attendees (over 400 registered): include First Responders, Government Officials, Emergency Managers, Business Leaders, School Administrators, Health and Human Service Providers, and Voluntary Agencies.

Presenters include State and Federal Agency representatives, business and voluntary agency leaders.

For more information see:
http://www.maine.gov/mema/prepare/prep_news.shtml?id=65695

The Augusta Civic Center is located just off Interstate 95 at exit 112 (southbound)/112A (northbound)

Hal Cohen, Senior Planner at James Lee Witt Associates, will be speaking at the American Planning Association’s annual meeting (April 25-26) at the Minneapolis Convention Center in Minnesota

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 15:32:36 GMT

Cohen's presentation at the APA National Planning Conference will highlight on mitigation planning and its requirements related to FEMA grant programs. Cohen will also discuss better practices and the necessary use of mitigation in conventional planning. The American Planning Association is an organization that aids in the development of communities through community planning, promoting education, and citizen empowerment.

For more information about the conference, click here

James Lee Witt Associates Receives Contract to Develop Continuity of Operations and Continuity of Government Plans for the City of Alexandria, Virginia

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 15:32:42 GMT

James Lee Witt Associates Receives Contract to Develop Continuity of Operations and Continuity of Government Plans for the City of Alexandria, Virginia

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Mar. 16, 2009-- GlobalOptions Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: GLOI), a leading provider of domestic and international risk management services, today announced that James Lee Witt Associates (JLWA), its Crisis Management and Preparedness Services Division, has obtained a contract to assist the City of Alexandria, Virginia's Office of Emergency Management in building its comprehensive emergency preparedness program.

"It is paramount for communities to engage in developing a comprehensive emergency management program," said James Lee Witt, Chief Executive Officer, James Lee Witt Associates. "The City of Alexandria's focus on improving the continuity of services during a crisis is crucial in helping Alexandria to serve their residents. We take inspiration from proactive, forward-thinking communities like Alexandria."

The City of Alexandria, Virginia contracted with Witt Associates to create the Continuity of Operations/Continuity of Government (COOP/COG) plans for the city's critical departments including Transportation and Environmental Services, Human Services, Information Technology, and Mental Health, Mental Retardation and Substance Abuse. The continuity of operations plans will facilitate the performance of essential functions during any interruption of normal operations, and the timely resumption of normal operations following an emergency.

"Witt Associates has been contracted to move our community forward in identifying the needs and implementation of our emergency management program," said Mark Penn, Emergency Management Coordinator for the City of Alexandria. "This phase of the development of our comprehensive emergency management program was vital as we further define our pandemic influenza plans and other plans where continuity of government provides the foundation for our community."

The City of Alexandria first contracted with Witt Associates in 2006 for the beginning stages of comprehensive emergency management program and focused to create a strategic plan for the City's emergency management program. They are now in the second phase of the contract, in the process of helping the City evaluate its crisis preparedness needs and resources which validates Alexandria priority to keep the communities vital functions operating in any type of crisis. In the wake of September 11, 2001, Alexandria's emergency plans also are coordinated through the State of Virginia to complement those in the Nation's Capital.

Witt Associates has been hired by a number of county and city governments including the State of Virginia to develop Emergency Operations and Continuity of Operations/Continuity of Government Plans (COOP). The firm has also been hired to do similar work at the state level, including assisting the California Department of Food and Agriculture's continuity of government planning by creating an updated outline and offering specific steps for improvement.

GlobalOptions Group

Source: GlobalOptions Group, Inc.