Golden State Today

Members of the UC Davis community are actively involved in providing assistance to those affected by the fires raging in Los Angeles County. The UC Davis Fire Department has deployed Brush Truck 34 as part of a Yolo County strike team to combat the Eaton Fire, which has expanded to 10,600 acres with no containment reported by the Los Angeles County Fire Department.

The crew on Brush Truck 34 includes Capt. Nate Potter, Engineer Erich Schultz, and Firefighters Chad Cunningham and Gerrit Dykzeul. Additionally, Capt. Steve Dunn is leading a group from the Lake Tahoe area to assist in firefighting efforts.

Interim Fire Chief Nathaniel Hartinger noted that campus personnel have been engaged in fighting structure fires overnight. "The end of the red flag warning tomorrow can’t come soon enough," he stated.

The Eaton Fire and other fires in Los Angeles County have resulted in at least five fatalities and over 1,000 structures destroyed, according to Cal Fire. Thousands have been evacuated due to these incidents.

Chancellor Gary S. May expressed support for those affected: “We know that many Aggies and their families are personally affected by these devastating fires, and we stand ready to offer whatever assistance we can.”

To aid students impacted by natural disasters, donations can be made to the Student Fire Relief Fund established by the UC Davis Foundation Board. Contributions can also be directed towards the Staff Emergency Fund for staff members facing unforeseen needs.

An event titled “Open Space for LA” is scheduled for Friday at Hart Hall’s Department of Chicana/o/x Studies office for those seeking support. Program Coordinator Charrise Torres acknowledged the impact on many within the department.

Outreach efforts are underway from the Office of Student Support to connect with students residing in affected areas. Chief Human Resources Officer Tammy Kenber emphasized flexibility and empathy during these events: “These events call for our collective flexibility, care and empathy.”

Managers are encouraged to provide flexible work arrangements or leave accommodations where needed. Employees may contribute to emergency assistance programs like the Staff Emergency Fund or donate vacation leave through the Catastrophic Leave Program.

For mental health support, employees can access confidential services through ASAP (Academic and Staff Assistance Program). Students have resources available through Aggie Compass Basic Needs Center and Aggie Mental Health website among others.

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