California fire-related resources

January 9, 2025
Kim A. Wilcox
Chancellor
January 9, 2025

Dear Campus Community,

I have watched news of fires throughout Southern California for the last two days with a heavy heart. I am sure the destruction equally saddens all of you. 

We know some members of our community have been directly affected by fires and evacuations. To anyone in this situation, I want to express condolences and support on behalf of the entire campus community.

Since UC Riverside is not under direct threat, we will continue to maintain normal campus operations.

However, considering the impacts of fires and related power outages, we ask that managers and supervisors as well as faculty and instructional staff provide maximum flexibility for both employees and students who are addressing these challenging situations. Faculty can adjust their class modality if circumstances necessitate.

UCR has resources if you or someone you know is experiencing emotional/psychological distress. 

Students can also access additional resources through the division of Health, Well-being & Safety.

Along with the Absence from Work policy, employees impacted by the fires or temporary power outage may find the following resources useful:

  • PSS and MSP employees: PPSM 2.210 may be utilized on behalf of eligible employees who are impacted by the fire and mass power outage.
  • SMG employees seeking leave should refer to PPSM II - 46 (Administrative Leaves with Pay).
  • Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA): employees covered by these agreements should review the leave provisions within their respective CBA.

Like other kinds of disasters, the immediate threat of danger is followed by an intense recovery effort. Victims of this event will not only need our support now but also in the coming weeks and months. Thank you for anything you do to assist those impacted.