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
- Visit the Berkeley News page, listen to KALX 90.7 FM (UC Berkeley's radio station), and watch for UC Berkeley WarnMe alerts
- Check Zonehaven for real-time evacuation warnings and orders for the City of Berkeley.
- Check for power outages in your neighborhood on the Pacific Gas and Electric Outage Map
- Check for water outages in your neighborhood on the East Bay Municipal Utilities District Alerts and Outages
- Consider signing up for Alameda County Alerts, the Alerting and Notification system for Alameda County and the City of Berkeley.
Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS)
- When severe weather and fire conditions threaten a portion of the electric infrastructure or community, Pacific Gas and Electric may turn off electricity in the interest of public safety
- Public Safety Power Shutoffs may occur with as little as a day's notice and can remain active for days. It is best to be prepared for a power outage at all times
- In the event of a PSPS, recharging stations will be set up by the City and University prioritizing residents and students with medical devices or other vital needs
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