News
Additional support for employees impacted by wildfire - launch Wildfire Relief Fund grant applications
September 4, 2020
In our continued efforts to support our employees who have been impacted by the wildfire, we have launched a new grant program to assist affected faculty and staff with unexpected financial expenses.
Next phase of building resumption - additional buildings cleared to open
September 3, 2020
Effective immediately, the following buildings have been cleared by Chancellor Larive to reopen. These locations may only resume operations that were in effect on Aug. 20, 2020, prior to the campus emergency declaration, and approved through the COVID-19 resumption process.
Next phase of building resumption - additional buildings cleared to open
September 3, 2020
Effective immediately, the following buildings have been cleared by Chancellor Larive to reopen. These locations may only resume operations that were in effect on Aug. 20, 2020, prior to the campus emergency declaration, and approved through the COVID-19 resumption process.
Next phase of building resumption - additional buildings cleared to open
September 2, 2020
Effective immediately, the following buildings have been cleared to reopen. These locations may only resume operations that were in effect on Aug. 20, 2020, prior to the campus emergency declaration, and approved through the COVID-19 resumption process.
Phased campus reopening underway, emergency order lifted
August 31, 2020
The UC Santa Cruz emergency order is lifted and the campus is in the midst of a phased effort to recover from the CZU Wildfire.
Next phase of building resumption - additional buildings cleared to open
August 31, 2020
Though the wildfire continues to burn in our county, it is now at 39% containment due to the heroic efforts of firefighters from across our region and state. Based on the latest status, I am lifting my Emergency Declaration that was issued on August 20th.
New vacation payout program for those impacted by the wildfires
August 28, 2020
In addition to the support services already outlined in prior communications, we are launching a new program. The UC Santa Cruz Employee Emergency Accrued Vacation Payout Program is a temporary program for eligible UCSC employees who are experiencing financial hardship as a result of the summer 2020 wildfires in California.
Resumption of Operations at Coastal Science Campus, Westside Research Park; emergency declaration modified
August 27, 2020
Based on the latest conditions, I am modifying further the campus emergency declaration. Effective immediately, the Coastal Science Campus and Westside Research Park can resume operations that were in effect on Aug. 20, 2020, prior to campus declaration.
Re-opening employee housing, rest of campus remains closed
August 26, 2020
Chancellor Cynthia Larive has amended the Aug. 20 emergency declaration so that employees who live at Laureate Court, Hagar Court, Ranch View Terrace, Hagar Meadow, and Cardiff Terrace can return to their homes tonight. The rest of the residential campus remains closed, as do the Coastal Science Campus and Westside Research Park.
SHR Employee Hotline and Resources
August 25, 2020
As our community continues to grapple with the ongoing wildfire threat to our campus, homes, and physical safety, we are providing additional resources to staff for the weeks ahead. Through displacement and emergency, it is critical for our staff community to have resources by phone or computer at their fingertips.
CZU Lightning Complex fire: How to give help, how to get help
August 25, 2020
This past week has seen many incredible displays of kindness, perseverance and resilience. We both spent time on campus with our teams as they managed the emergency evacuation.
Servicios de apoyo para empleados impactados por los incendios forestales y evacuaciones
August 23, 2020
Todo miembro de la facultad y del personal que lea esto ha sido impactado de distintas maneras por los incendios forestales actualmente activos en nuestra región. Algunos de Uds. han sido evacuados, otros de Uds. están albergando a individuos que han sido desplazados, y lamentablemente otros han perdido sus hogares en los incendios.
Support services for employees impacted by the wildfires and evacuations
August 23, 2020
Every faculty and staff member reading this has been impacted in different ways by the wildfires that are active in our region. Some of you have evacuated, some of you are hosting individuals who have been displaced, and sadly some of you have lost your homes in the fires.
Santa Cruz County wildfires 8% contained, potential bad weather approaching the region
August 23, 2020
The wildfire impacting Santa Cruz County is now 8% contained thanks to the valiant efforts of first responders from CAL FIRE and across the country. The fire remains approximately one mile north of campus and has not traveled further south at this point.
Weekend UCSC Fire Update
August 22, 2020
Through the tireless work of CAL FIRE and first responders, the CZU Lightning Complex Fire that threatens our campus is now 5% contained. CAL FIRE created fire breaks from Highway 1 to Highway 9 to help decrease the threat of fire to additional areas, including UC Santa Cruz and the city of Santa Cruz.
Update on campus response to wildfire
August 21, 2020
The wildfires continue to impact Santa Cruz County. There are approximately 57,000 acres involved, but we are now at 2% containment thanks to the amazing efforts of fire crews.
You are not alone - we are with you
August 21, 2020
Whether you have been evacuated from your residence on campus, are living near campus, or are watching or hearing about the fires in the Santa Cruz area from some distance away, I know that many of you are scared right now. You have concerns and might not be sure where to turn or what to do next. You are not alone.
UCSC Fire Update
August 21, 2020
As of this morning, the fire is about a mile north of upper campus. There is no fire activity on campus or in the City of Santa Cruz, and we hope that all our activities have been taken in an abundance of caution.
Support for employee needs emerging from the current wildfires
August 20, 2020
As the members of our Slug community continue to deal with the wildfires and evacuations, we want to outline some of the resources available to you.
EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION: Evacuation order--Emergency Declaration
August 20, 2020
Based on the chancellor’s emergency declaration, ALL employees and students living in campus housing must evacuate. Everyone must immediately leave the UC Santa Cruz residential campus and be prepared to not return for at least two weeks. UC Santa Cruz Police Officers will be going door to door to evacuate those remaining on campus.
UC Santa Cruz Declaration of Emergency
August 20, 2020
UC Santa Cruz is impacted by the wildfires burning in Santa Cruz County and elsewhere in Northern California. Residents of the mountain communities surrounding UC Santa Cruz have been forced to evacuate their homes in the face of the fast-moving Lightning Complex Fire ignited a few days ago by a dry lightning storm.
Evacuation Warning
August 20, 2020
This is not an evacuation order, but rather a warning to be prepared to evacuate.
Initiating the next steps in our fire response - beginning next stages of voluntary evacuations
August 20, 2020
As the conditions around Santa Cruz county worsen and the fires impacting our region continue to grow, we are now initiating several critical steps in our fire response.
Mandatory research cessation and information about securing research materials
August 20, 2020
I am now directing that all non-essential research operations at all Santa Cruz locations cease immediately. Please shut down all equipment as you would normally do for winter curtailment, secure chemicals in fire-safe storage, and secure lab notebooks and other irreplaceable items if possible.
Support during difficult times
August 20, 2020
We understand the stress that many of you may be experiencing; the addition of the fires on top of an already difficult year has been a challenge. Please know that we want to support you as you navigate these difficult times.
The Impact of Fires on our Community
August 20, 2020
Today my heart is with all the members of our community for the challenges we face together. At this moment I am especially concerned for those impacted by the wildfires burning in Santa Cruz County and elsewhere in Northern California.
Impact of Fires on Instruction
August 20, 2020
While instruction in summer classes continues, we understand the fear and disturbance that sudden evacuations can cause. We encourage everyone to be flexible as you consider how to continue instruction in these challenging times
Critical update on wildfires in Santa Cruz—preparation for potential evacuation
August 20, 2020
We continue to closely track the wildfires impacting the county of Santa Cruz and the region. At this point, there are no active fires on campus properties in Santa Cruz County. However, conditions can change rapidly and we are being vigilant in our preparations. Air quality also remains a concern throughout the area.
Temporary cessation of non-essential on-campus research activities recommended due to poor air quality and possible fire threat
August 20, 2020
Based on the poor air quality and the potential of a campus evacuation, we recommend that all non-essential on-campus research activities cease until the air quality improves and there is more clarity on the fire threat to the campus.
Critical update on wildfires in Santa Cruz—preparation for potential evacuation
August 20, 2020
We continue to closely track the wildfires impacting the county of Santa Cruz and the region. At this point, there are no active fires on campus properties in Santa Cruz County. However, conditions can change rapidly and we are being vigilant in our preparations. Air quality also remains a concern throughout the area.
Additional support for employees impacted by wildfire evacuations
August 19, 2020
As fire threats continue to impact our region and Santa Cruz county, we know that many employees have been forced to evacuate from your homes. This adds stress to an already challenging time for you and your families.
Update on fires impacting our region
August 19, 2020
UC Santa Cruz continues to closely track the fires in Santa Cruz, Santa Clara, and neighboring counties. This event has resulted in multiple evacuations and air quality concerns.
Campus Air Quality
August 19, 2020
Smoke from multiple northern California fires, including the Lightning Complex Fires in the Santa Cruz Mountains, is impacting our local air quality.
Power outage possible tonight at UCSC locations
August 19, 2020
Pacific Gas and Electric Co. has informed UC Santa Cruz leaders that our main residential campus, Coastal Science Campus, and Westside Research Park may experience a power outage for an hour or two around 8 p.m. tonight as part of the series of rotating outages being utilized statewide to ease demand on the power grid caused by the heat wave gripping California.
N95 Respirator Instructions
April 3, 2019
March 14, 2018
Building Emergency Program
January 19, 2018
Upcoming Prescribed Burns at UC Santa Cruz
November 6, 2017
CAL FIRE is planning to conduct a number of prescribed burn units cooperatively with UC Santa Cruz and Wilder Ranch State Park through the fall and into early 2018. Notification and updates will be provided to the UC Santa Cruz community when burning is scheduled to occur.
Wildfire Smoke and Air Quality
October 12, 2017
Watch this, keep your friends safe!
December 8, 2016
The video offers basic tips on unobstructed exits, exit signs, smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, and flammable objects. It also stresses the importance of having electrical work done by a professional.
OES Fall Presentation
December 5, 2016
This fall the office of OES will republish a revised Emergency Operations Plan (EOP). The campus will also begin a refresh of Business Continuity Planning using the upgraded templates within UC Ready. Visit the OES Fall Presentation for a summary of these activities.
November Safety Spotlight
December 5, 2016
Power Outage Tips, A Student’s Perspective on Emergency Preparedness, American Workers are not Prepared for an Emergency
OES Fall Presentation
November 30, 2016
This fall the office of OES will republish a revised Emergency Operations Plan (EOP). The campus will also begin a refresh of Business Continuity Planning using the upgraded templates within UC Ready. Visit the OES Fall Presentation for a summary of these activities.
High Surf Warning
November 2, 2016
Hazardous conditions on area beaches for the next couple days
Wilder Ranch Controlled Burns Planned
October 18, 2016
Wilder Ranch State Park is conducting a series of vegetation management burns beginning today and going through the rest of the week.
Winter Storm Preparedness
October 13, 2016
The National Weather Service is forecasting the first winter storm of the year for the Santa Cruz area beginning on late Thursday night and continuing through Saturday, accompanied by High Surf and Coastal Flooding Advisories.
Hoverboard Policy Article
May 24, 2016
The Hoverboard Policy bans the use, storage or charging of certain hoverboards in buildings and housing units on all UC properties with the exception of private campus housing units co..owned by faculty or staff. The ban does not apply to hoverboards that have been tested and certified by an accredited third party testing laboratory. The ban is necessary due to the special risks of fire in residences, classrooms, and laboratories caused by the types of batteries used by certain hoverboards. This policy was vetted with the President’s Office, Office of General Counsel, Campus Environment, Health, and Safety Directors, UC Fire Marshals, UC Police Chiefs, and the Policy Advisory Committee.
A Note on 4-20 Impacts
April 20, 2016
Focus on Public Health
April 4, 2016
April 4-10 is national public health week. Join us in pledging to create healthy and safe habits and communities.
February 1, 2016
El Niño Winter Preparedness
January 6, 2016
While it won't end our drought, this winter's El Niño weather pattern may present challenges to the community. Here are a few tips on how to be prepared this rainy season.
The Office of Emergency Services is Currently Experiencing Leadership Changes
January 4, 2016
Rosemary Anderson, former Business Continuity Director and Interim Emergency Manager has accepted a position with the county of Santa Cruz.
Test of New Everbridge System for CruzAlert
June 2, 2015
ITS and OES will be conducting a full-scale campus test of Everbridge on Wednesday, June 3 starting at 10:45 AM to ensure that the system is configured properly.
New Mass Notification System in the Works
April 30, 2015
UC Santa Cruz will soon start using a new mass notification system to power CruzAlerts, the text messages, emails and phone calls that warn the campus community of potential dangers.
UC Ready Enhancement Update
April 23, 2015
Update for the UC Ready Enhancement Project as of April 2015.
UC Ready Enhancement Project
March 5, 2015
In early 2014, the UC Ready Enhancement Project was established to improve the functionality of the UC Ready tool.
Winter Storm Preparedness
December 9, 2014
The National Weather Service is forecasting a significant winter storm for the Santa Cruz area beginning on 12/10 and intensifying on 12/11 As the first significant storm of the winter, this is a good opportunity to review storm preparedness information and resources.
OES Welcomes Alia Williams as Special Projects Assistant
November 14, 2014
The Office of Emergency Services is pleased to welcome student staff member Alia Williams to the OES team.
Ready Slug Video Migration
September 12, 2014
Student-developed campus safety videos have been moved to new OES YouTube Channel
Transition of CPR/AED/First Aid Training Program to OPERS
September 10, 2014
Recreation Department will become the primary CPR, AED and first aid training provider for the campus.
OES Announces Appointment of Nick Otis as Deputy Fire Marshal
August 4, 2014
The Office of Emergency Services is pleased to announce the appointment of Nick Otis as the new Deputy Fire Marshal for the campus.
Press Release: City and UC Santa Cruz to Share Fire Services Beginning July 1
June 25, 2014
UC Santa Cruz to contract for fire emergency services with City of Santa Cruz. Office of Emergency Services formed to house Campus Fire Marshal, Emergency Management, Business Continuity Planning, Mass Notification (CruzAlert), and Public Education programs.
Changes in Fire and Emergency Management Services
June 25, 2014
Several services formerly under the UC Santa Cruz Fire Department will remain with the campus and be reassigned to Risk and Safety Services. This unit will be called the Office of Emergency Services (OES) and report to the associate vice chancellor, Risk and Safety Services.
UCSC and Santa Cruz Hosting Rescue Drills
August 20, 2013
Departments are hosting a series of county-wide mutual aid drills on campus the week of August 19, 2013.
February 17, 2013
CERT Class 12-01 Finishes Training
December 10, 2012
Newest CERT graduates include staff from Housing and Digital Arts
Recognition Ceremony for Lifesaving Actions
November 15, 2012
A recognition ceremony took place at the Stevenson Event Center on November 5 that honored sixteen individuals whose actions helped save three lives.
Campus Emergency Manager Chris Gaylord Receives CEM Designation
November 21, 2011
Certification recognizes experience in the field of emergency management
Health Alert: Stomach Flu Outbreak
October 10, 2011
The campus community and the Santa Cruz Health Department are monitoring and responding to an outbreak of Gastroenteritis, also know as the Stomach Flu, affecting students on campus and members of the larger Santa Cruz community.
Make Sure the CruzAlert System has your Contact Information
September 21, 2011
CruzAlert test scheduled for September 27, 2011
Information from County Public Health Related to Japan Crisis
March 17, 2011
Public Health Update on Japan's nuclear emergency
'The ground started moving all around me'
October 2, 2009
20 years after the Loma Prieta Earthquake of 1989
Campus Safety, Security Update and Scheduled CruzAlert Tests
April 16, 2009
Safety & security improvements in two years since Virginia Tech shootings