Utility Outages

Power up before a power outage. Planning ahead means you won’t be left completely in the dark if the lights go out.

Stay Informed 

Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS)

Power Outages

  • Turn off and unplug all electronics
  • DO NOT use a generator, grill, or camp stove indoors
  • Leave one light on so you'll know when the power comes back
  • Keep refrigerator doors closed (it stays cool for 4 hours)
  • Call 911 if trapped in an elevator, if on-campus call 510-642-3333 via cell
  • If you are evacuated, do not re-enter until allowed by emergency personnel
  • Visit news.berkeley.edu and watch for UCB WarnMe alerts for updates

Gas Leaks 

  • Immediately cease what you are doing and evacuate the area. 
  • DO NOT turn on or off electrical appliances, switches, etc. 
  • Call 911 (510-642-3333 via Cell) 
  • DO NOT re-enter the premises until authorities clear the building

Plumbing/Flooding 

  • Stop using all electrical equipment. 
  • Take reasonable measures to prevent damage and preserve property 
  • Evacuate the area if needed. 

Boil Water Advisories 

  • In the event of an Advisory being issued, only consume bottled water or boil tap water before consumption 
  • All tap water, included filtered tap water, should be brought to a full rolling boil for at least 1 minute before consumption. 
  • For Hygiene, do not consume any water while showering, utilize bottled or boiled water for brushing teeth
  • For Dishes, try to utilize disposable dishware, or combine 1 teaspoon of bleach per gallon of tap water to sanitize dishes. 
  • For more information check the CDC's website on Boil Water advisories

When to Stop Working

  • Be prepared to stop what you're doing until utilities are back on
    • Life safety systems, such as alarms, sprinkers, emergency lighting, and fume hoods may not work (especially during a prolonged outages)
  • You will be notified via multiple communication channels if classes or other activities are canceled