Knowing what to do, where to go, and the resources available in the event of an emergency or natural disasters is key to staying as safe as possible. Emergencies can happen quickly and unexpectedly so it is critically important to prepare in advance by reviewing the information on the UC Berkeley Office of Emergency Management (OEM) website.
Stay informed - WarnMe is UC Berkeley’s Alerting and Warning System and how you may hear from the campus about significant emergencies and receive updates until a situation is resolved. By default, every Berkeley email address is automatically enrolled. To also receive WarnMe emergency alerts via SMS/text message, you must register your mobile phone number. Typically, an initial WarnMe message will contain basic information and any follow-up WarnMe messages may be more detailed.
How to evacuate - It is possible that a WarmMe message could instruct you to evacuate from a building, campus, or the City of Berkeley. Be prepared by reviewing emergency assembly area and waiting area information provided by the Office of Emergency Management. Practice makes perfect so make your emergency plan today.
Sheltering in place/active threats - When a WarnMe message directs you to shelter-in-place:
close all doors and windows
move away from exterior doors and windows
be prepared to leave at a moment's notice
Also, knowing the difference between sheltering-in-place vs. a campus lockdown (secure in place) is key. The UC Police Department also offers a guide about surviving targeted violence and active threats, i.e., active shooter situations. Those working away from central campus should use their best judgment for what may be applicable in their locations.
Earthquake preparedness - Earthquakes are an inherent part of living in California. Every year, the campus devotes millions of dollars to seismically improving its buildings. Should an earthquake occur while you are indoors, you can reduce the chance of injury from falling objects by immediately dropping, covering, and holding on until the shaking ends. If you are outdoors, remain outside. Stay away from buildings, windows, and utility lines. Go to your emergency assembly/waiting area when it is safe to do so. Learn more about earthquake preparedness and response from the UC Berkeley Office of Emergency Management (OEM).
Consider downloading the MyShake app to your smartphone. The app, developed here at Berkeley, is an earthquake early warning system. It can provide valuable seconds to prepare. Earthquake alerts are provided in partnership with USGS ShakeAlert and CalOES.
Wildfire smoke - Watch for WarnMe messages should the campus become impacted by high AQI (air quality index) levels indicating unhealthy air quality due to wildfires. The messages may provide information on suspending outdoor activities, classes, or curtailment of campus operations (to extent possible). Additional resources and guidance are available through Berkeley’s Office of Environment, Health & Safety (EH&S) and the OEM website. Also consider bookmarking the City of Berkeley’s webpage on Wildfire Evacuations.
Utility/power outages - When severe weather or fire conditions threaten a portion of the electric infrastructure or community, Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) may turn off electricity in the interest of public safety. Planning ahead and following instructions from campus means you won’t be left completely in the dark, whether on campus or at home. Follow these steps and stay informed.
Surviving targeted violence - If you witness any armed individual on campus immediately call 911. If it is possible to flee the area safely and avoid danger, do so. If escaping from danger is impossible, you should lockdown. Wait for the "all-clear" instruction given via a WarnMe message. Do not trust information and rumors on social media. Knowing what to do in advance of targeted violence is essential to staying as safe as possible. Learn more on UCPD’s Tools to Survive Targeted Violence webpage.
Planning for people with disabilities - Emergency preparedness is important for all members of our community, especially for those with disabilities. The Office of Disability Access & Compliance (DAC) also has a comprehensive section on their website regarding emergency preparedness.
Source: Email sent from Office of the Vice Chancellor Administration 09/12/2022