SIP EOC-Liaison FAQ's

Do I get paid?

No, this is a volunteer position and there is not monetary retribution or expenses reimbursement. Your expenses however may be tax deductible because Safeguard Iowa is a registered non-profit (please consult your tax advisor).

What if I am not available when a disaster occurs?

If the EOC is activated, Safeguard Iowa will contact the SIP-EOC liaisons to provide an update on the situation including the request. At this time, the SIP-EOC liaisons will discuss their availability to assist. Safeguard Iowa recognizes that there will be times when you may not be available therefore a diverse team of volunteers has been built to meet the needs.

Where do I serve?

We are recruiting volunteers in companies and organizations in all major counties to serve at their local or nearest EOCs. If a disaster occurs and volunteers are not available at a specific EOC we may contact volunteers available in other locations that may be willing to travel to serve.

For how long do I have to serve?

There are two parts to this question:

1) there is not a minimum time requirement to be a registered volunteer. You may agree to serve as a SIP-EOC liaison as long as your employee supports your decision to participate. 2) If the EOC is activated you may have to serve 13 hour shifts alternating with other volunteers for as long as the EOC is activated.

Is there specific training that I have to take?

Yes, requirements are outlined on the application. Training is available online and also provided by Safeguard Iowa in the form of a workshop or exercise. Training includes the basic concepts that you willneed to will need your work. You can expect to invest 20 hours a year.

I do not work for my company anymore, can I still volunteer?

To be a SIP-EOC liaison, you must be sponsored by your employer. If you terminate your relationship with your employer you shall obtain approval from your new employer. If you retire from your employer discuss the opportunity to continue as a liaison for Safeguard Iowa Partnership.

Why Participate as a SIP-EOC liaison?

Have a “seat at the table” – Public and private sector are working together to create joint solutions to improve the emergency management field, and enhance information sharing and collection. The private sector is not just a resource for government, but a true partner.
Public recognition – Through press releases, Twitter and Facebook postings published by Safeguard Iowa, public sector partners and your company.
Be a part of a Cutting Edge Program – The SIP-EOC liaison program is relatively new and few exist across the nation. Participation in this role could further position your company as an industry leader in both the private sector and government.
Enhance your Reputation – Your participation in this program can be shared with policy makers while meeting on policy agendas to show that as a company you are a mover and a shaker in this arena.
Internal Emergency Management Initiatives – Enhance or boost your own internal efforts through this partnership and knowledge gained during this process.
Valuable Training – As a liaison you will have the opportunity to get FREE training in various aspects of emergency management and will bring back the credentials to your organization.
Educate the government – Be a voice on the inside making the difference you really seek.
Visibility – On the private sector’s capabilities and needs in disasters preparedness, response and recovery and private sector fits in.
Build the Framework for the Program – As a liaison you will have an opportunity to help shape the policies and procedures for the SIP-EOC liaison.

What are the benefits of SIP-EOC liaison program?

Continuity of Community. Help facilitate “continuity of community” following disasters and may include maintenance of critical infrastructure such as transportation, power, food, water, shelter, healthcare and telecommunications. This will in turn help businesses maintain their own continuity of operations.
Enhanced situational awareness. Provide a greater degree of situational awareness to all parties. Situational awareness plays a key role in supporting informed decision making and avoiding duplication or conflict in efforts by the private sector and government.
Increased information flow. Provide an increased bi-directional flow of information related to activities, policies and other efforts affecting critical community resources. Working side-by-side with government, the business community benefits from regular updates and more direct access to critical information.
Improved private sector support. The private sector has significant capability and willingness to provide supplies, services and assistance to government. Through the SIP- EOC liaison program, the private sector can provide this support – on both a commercial and pro bono basis – more efficiently and effectively.
Development of close partnerships. Both the private sector and government have the opportunity to develop trusted relationships and become true partners in the emergency response and recovery efforts.