Dear UC ANR Community,
We have all experienced so many challenges this year, and now we face the challenges wrought by more than 300 wildfires around the state. Some of you have had to evacuate to safety, wondering if your homes will be standing when you return. Others are sheltering family and friends who have had to evacuate. Power outages and poor air quality are adding to the stresses we face in the midst of a global pandemic.
We would like to remind you of resources that are available to help the UC ANR community weather this time of crisis.
- Supervisors are encouraged to be flexible and understanding with staff who have been impacted by the fires or power outages. If you cannot work due to fire impacts, contact your supervisor. Supervisors should contact Jodi Rosenbaum (jrosenbaum@ucanr.edu) about paid leave options.
- For those in need of further assistance, the Academic and Staff Assistance Program (ASAP) offers confidential and cost-free assessment, intervention, consultation and referral services to you and your families.
- Emergency resources from UC's benefit plans can be found at: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/compensation-and-benefits/emergency-resources.html
- Use the following safety notes and UC ANR fire website links to help with emergency preparedness and safety:
167 Be Informed about Emergencies
168 Make a Plan for Emergencies
169 Build a Kit of Emergency Supplies
https://ucanr.edu/sites/fire/Prepare/
https://ucanr.edu/sites/fire/Safety/Evacuation/
https://ucanr.edu/sites/fire/Safety/Current/
https://ucanr.edu/sites/fire/Safety/AirQuality/
- Monitor air quality in your area using https://www.airnow.gov. Your local Air Quality Management District may also be a good source of detailed information. When checking the Air Quality Index, be sure to look specifically for the rating/number associated with AQI for5. Particulate Matter of 2.5 microns (PM2.5) is the pollutant of concern that is most typically associated with wildfire smoke. Anything above an AQI of 151 for PM2.5 is considered unhealthy.
- Use social media to stay up to date on the situation in your area: follow your County's emergency services, the Sheriff's office, CalFire, etc. to stay informed.
I am grateful to the firefighters who are working so hard to protect our state and to all of you for your resiliency and commitment to our mission. Thanks for all you do and stay safe out there!
Glenda Humiston
Vice President