Emergency resources

Aug 20, 2020

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.

          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

 


By Pamela Kan-Rice
Author - Assistant Director, News and Information Outreach