In the event of an earthquake, the Housing staff is trained to assist Residents with emergencies. Residents who wish to volunteer for training may contact the Crest Resident Services Office for information.

A severe earthquake in this area will produce violent shaking that will last anywhere from five to sixty seconds.

Be prepared for after-shocks, which could be as serious as the initial earthquake.

The actual movement of the ground in an earthquake is seldom the direct cause of death or injury. Most casualties result from falling objects and debris, not collapsing buildings.

Panic and anxiety are natural responses; when unchecked, they can increase injuries.

HOW TO PREPARE

▪ Locate beds, desks and tables away from windows, if possible.

▪ Place mirrors and pictures where falling will cause minimal damage.

▪ Do not hang stereo speakers, plants, etc., from the ceiling.

▪ Heavy objects (refrigerators, TVs, stereos, etc.) should be as close to the floor as possible.

▪ Loose objects (e.g. books) should be secured.

▪ Keep spaces under tables, desks, counters, etc., clear so you can seek shelter in an earthquake.

DURING AN EARTHQUAKE

▪ THINK!! Be calm and reassuring. Think through the consequence of any action you may take.

▪ DO NOT EXIT! If indoors, stay indoors. If outdoors, stay outdoors. If indoors, seek shelter under a table, desk or bed. If outdoors, stay away from buildings, glass and electrical power lines. Get out from under any objects that can fall.

AFTER AN EARTHQUAKE

▪ Check for injuries. Do not attempt to move seriously injured people unless they are in danger of further injury. If you know first aid, use it.

▪ Do not use matches, candles or open flames, as there may be gas leaks.

▪ Do not operate electrical switches or appliances.

▪ Do not touch downed power lines.

▪ Do not use your telephone except for emergency calls.

▪ When checking closets and cupboards, open doors cautiously and watch for objects falling from shelves.

EVACUATION

In the event of a real fire or natural disaster, Residents are asked to report to the Crest Park. This is the designated Emergency Assembly Area for residents, as well as the communication center for Canyon Crest Family Student Housing. If the Crest Park is not available, then the alternate Emergency Assembly Area for residents is the parking lot of the Riverside Sports Copmlex, on the corner of Canyon Crest Drive and Blaine Street.  Residents should take the following items for each member of their family, from their homes in the event of a disaster:

• A pillow and blanket

• A pair of closed toe shoes

• Warm clothing

• Flashlight

OUR RESPONSIBILITIES TO YOU

EVACUATION-FIRE ALARMS

All Residents are required to evacuate the premises immediately in the event of an actual fire. Residents must exit and stand at least 100 feet from the building. The Housing staff or Emergency personnel will give instructions when it is safe to return to your home.

Failure to respond to a fire alarm or to follow directions given by the Housing staff could lead to one or more of the following disciplinary actions:

1. First Offense - Written warning.

2. Second Offense - $50.00 fine with possible eviction.

3. Third Offense – Immediate Eviction

FIRE SAFETY INFORMATION

1. In the event of an emergency, STAY CALM! The Housing staff, along with the University Police and Fire Officials will be on hand to make your evacuation as quick as possible.

2. If you smell smoke, call the University Police at 911. Give them all the necessary information including your unit number.

3. When you hear the alarm sound, DO NOT assume it to be a false alarm -- evacuate immediately.

4. When you proceed to evacuate, before you open your door, feel the doorknob. If it is hot, do not open the door. If it is cool, open the door and take a look outside. If it is clear of fire and heavy smoke, exit the building.

5. If you are able to leave your unit, take your keys with you -- you may be forced to return to your home. Make sure your door is shut and locked. If possible, take a blanket and wear shoes when you leave.

6. If you are forced to stay inside your home, open the window if there is fresh air outside. DO NOT break the window, you may have to close it if the air outside becomes filled with smoke. Make a big HELP sign and place it in your window to alert search and rescue persons that someone needs help inside.

7. If your Unit fills with smoke, stay low to the ground. Fill sinks with water. Wet towels and/or sheets and stuff them around the door. Block all vents with a wet towel. If the walls and doors get hot, throw water on them. Keep everything wet. Swing a wet towel around the room to clear the smoke. Place a wet towel over your nose and mouth to act as a filter.

FIRE/SMOKE DETECTION EQUIPMENT

Smoke detectors are installed in each unit. Should a sufficient amount of smoke gather in your home, the detector will sound. In the event of an actual fire, everyone should evacuate the unit and go to a neighbor’s to call 911 for the Fire Department. Residents are REQUIRED to notify the Housing staff or the Campus Police if the detector in their unit has been activated. Do not touch your detector if it is activated.

If you feel a detector is not working properly, submit a maintenance work order request to the Crest Resident Services Office.

Tampering with any fire safety equipment is a misdemeanor, (California Penal Code section 148.4). Violators are subject to legal prosecution, (fine and/or jail term), and immediate eviction.

MULTIPLE ACTIVATIONS

If it is found that you are responsible for constant activations of the fire alarm system, and these activations are due to negligence or irresponsible behavior, you face possible fines and/or eviction.

SAFETY, SECURITY AND INSURANCE

Housing is committed to maintaining high standards for both safety and security in Crest Family Housing. The Housing Services Office provides information on renter’s insurance. We encourage all Residents to purchase their own renter’s policy. All Residents and their guests must recognize the importance of safety and security regulations. Those individuals found in violation will be subject to disciplinary action and/or eviction.