Safety
Residents shall abide by the Regulations and Policies that have been established for the safety, comfort and welfare of all tenants.
Dial 911 for All Life Safety Emergencies
Emergencies
In the event of an emergency requiring response from police (LAPD), medical personnel or fire department, dial 911.
911 should be used only in an emergency situation. For regular police business or non-life threatening situations (e.g., theft, etc.) that occurs on-campus or within University property, contact the UCPD at (310) 825-1491.
Campus Emergency Reporting System (ERS)
There are 27 Emergency Reporting System station (large dark blue telephone stations) located throughout the campus and CHS community. The ERS system is a customized telecommunications device designed to be used by anyone in an emergency situation. The ERS telephone provides immediate access to the UCLA Police Department. Please use ERS telephones ONLY in extreme emergency conditions where immediate emergency service response is required (police, fire, or paramedic).
In addition, over 200 Emergency 911 Quick Link stations (yellow call boxes with flashing blue lights) are located in all parking structures. Placed in highly visible areas, the stations provide immediate one-button access to the UCLA Police Department.
Fire Safety
Smoke detectors, fire alarms and fire extinguishers are provided throughout each of the University Apartments buildings. Help ensure this equipment is kept in proper working order by reporting any damage or other problems concerning fire equipment to UA Facilities Management at (310) 983-1300 or your Apartment Coordinator. Do not attempt to repair any safety equipment yourself.
At Weyburn Terrace, smoke detectors and fire alarms sound an alarm and are accompanied by flashing lights. UCFD is alerted immediately and will respond to the call.
Persons who notice a fire emergency should activate a building alarm and then call the Fire Department at 911 immediately. Evacuate the area and explain the nature of the problem to the firefighters who arrive at the scene. All persons within an apartment building must evacuate at the sound of an alarm.
Be mindful of any lit items such as candles. Never leave them unattended and always ensure that they are extinguished before you leave your apartment.
Smoke detectors and fire alarms are for your safety. Do not remove or interfere with them. If the fire horns or alarms appear to be malfunctioning, please call UA Facilities Management at (310) 983-1300 immediately. Tampering with a fire alarm pull station without due cause is a serious violation of the Regulations & Policies and can be considered a felony. Violators will be prosecuted. Residents who remove or tamper with smoke or carbon monoxide alarm equipment may be charged for the violation and may be subject to legal action from the Fire Marshal.
In case of a fire, use stairwells only--never use elevators. Plan your emergency escape routes in advance for use in the event of an emergency.
Fire sprinkler heads are to be properly maintained. Fire Sprinklers are there for your safety in the event of a fire. All Fire Life Safety Systems are inspected annually. The fire sprinkler will discharge only when the temperature reaches a certain temperature (155-165 degrees F). The water in the sprinkler lines is under tremendous pressure and when activated hundreds of gallons of water will be discharged instantly through the sprinkler head until the Fire Department shuts off the system.
- Do not hang anything from the sprinkler heads as this will compromise the sprinkler head and cause it to discharge.
- Do not store any items near the sprinklers in apartments or garage areas.
- Be mindful of where the sprinkler heads are located in your apartment to avoid coming in contact with them accidentally. Residents will be responsible for any and all damages to this equipment, as well as any damage to the building structure or features and the personal belongings of the affected neighbors from an improper discharge of a fire sprinkler.
Crime Prevention and Personal Safety - Dial (310) 825-6111
Crime prevention is everyone’s business. Although the University assumes no liability for crimes committed in or around University Apartments, nor responsibility for lost or stolen items while on University property, the University and University Apartments are committed to preventing crimes and promoting the safety and security of residents. University Apartments is part of the Los Angeles community and, unfortunately, crime is a reality. While University Apartments benefits from UCPD patrols and continues to implement other security related processes, the fact remains that this is not a crime-free community. Residents are strongly encouraged to support all security related policies and procedures and to purchase Renters Insurance for personal belongings through a major insurance agency.
Personal Safety Precautions
- Keep police and emergency numbers entered into and near your telephone. Call 911 or UC Police Department/UC Fire Department at (310) 825-1491.
- Lock all doors and windows whenever you leave and engage the deadbolt. Take the keys with you, even if you leave for only a short while.
- Keep all doors and windows locked when you are not home or when you are not able to monitor them, such as when sleeping.
- Keep house and car keys on separate rings.
- Do not lend your keys to anyone.
- Do not attach or label keys with your address or room number.
- Get to know your neighbors so you can help each other.
- Always ask for identification before you let anyone in.
- If a stranger asks to use the telephone, do not open the door. Instead, offer to call for emergency assistance for him/her.
- Report any suspicious or unusual activity to UCPD at (310) 825-1491. If you see something, say something!
- Do not prop open residence doors. Meet visitors at the door.
- Do not tamper with door locking mechanisms. Never use tape, pins, or other devices to keep the door from locking shut.
- Set the deadbolt on the apartment doors.
- Use caution when leaving notes or signs on the door letting people know you are out of the apartment for a period of time. A note can alert potential thieves of your absence.
- Do not allow strangers to enter the apartment unless they are properly identified. If a stranger does enter the apartment, demand that he or she leave. If he or she refuses, create a commotion and leave quickly. Call 911 or UCPD at (310) 825-1491.
- Don’t leave large sums of money, jewelry or valuable items in the apartment. Secure valuables elsewhere when on vacation.
- If you are accosted in a hallway or public area of the building, and feel that you are in immediate danger, get to safety immediately or once the danger has passed, dial 911 or UCPD at (310) 825-1491 and explain the situation to the Police. Be prepared to give the location of the incident if you have left the vicinity.
- Notify the 24-Hour Service line at (310) 983-1300.
- Neve leave keys hidden around the exterior of the apartment.
- Always identify visitors before letting them in. Request service people to show proper credentials before you open the door.
- Report to the police any unusual or suspicious activity, or persons near the apartment or around neighbors’ apartments.
- Make sure you know your visitor before opening the entrance door of the apartment building.
- Arrange for service people to come when someone else will be present.
- Avoid isolated areas of the building (stairways, laundry rooms, basement, etc.) when you are alone.
- Entry to any building or garage is reserved for the resident only.
- Do not hold open exterior gates for unknown person(s).
Precautions When Walking Alone
- Avoid dark, vacant or deserted areas. If you are followed or see suspicious activity, move to a lighted building or area and raise a commotion. DIAL 911 or activate a Police Emergency Alarm.
- Avoid walking alone at night, if at all possible. Have a friend escort you both ways, wait for a campus van, or request a Campus Escort through one of the numbers listed below. Be alert, observant and aware of your surroundings and of other people on the street with you.
- Carry a noise-making device and have it ready to use.
- Be cautious of jogging alone, day or night, even in populated areas with street lights. Since most people will be indoors, help could be delayed if you get in trouble.
- If you jog with a portable radio, cover only one ear so you can hear around you.
- Never leave keys hidden around the exterior of the apartment.
- Be aware that hitchhiking is a high-risk activity. Think ahead of alternative transportation.
- Wear clothes and shoes that will allow you to move quickly.
- Tuck gold chains and other jewelry inside your clothing as these items might attract a criminal’s attention.
- If you carry a purse, briefcase, or backpack, keep only a small amount of cash in it. If possible, do not carry a purse.
- Carry your keys, your identification, and anything else of value on your person.
- Keep your keys in hand when you are moving about at night.
- Report any suspicious person or circumstance to the UCLA Police at (310) 825-1491. If you see something, say something!
Campus Escort Service - Dial 4-WALK (310) 794-9255 or (310) 825-1493
You are also urged to call the Community Service Office for escort service to and from your apartment and campus. The perimeter boundaries are:
- North to Sunset Blvd.
- East to Hilgard Ave.
- South to Wilshire Blvd.
- West to Veteran Ave.
Report Suspicious Activity
Call the UCPD at (310) 825-1491 and the 24-Hour Service line at (310) 983-1300 about all suspicious activity. Some people fail to call the Police simply because they are not aware of what seemingly innocent activities might be suspicious. Others may notice suspicious activity and may be hesitant to call for fear of seeming “over-reactive.” Do not take it for granted that someone else will call. Do not worry about “bothering” the Police - they are here to help.
Solicitation Is Not Allowed
Report solicitors or salesmen to the 24-Hour Service line at (310) 983-1300 or to the Police at (310) 825-1491. If a solicitor approaches you, jot down a description and call one of these numbers immediately. If you feel you or others are in danger due to the solicitor, call 911 and explain the situation. Do not confront the solicitor on your own.
Watch Out for Suspicious Persons
- Person(s) loitering about at unusual hours and locations.
- Person(s) running from what seems to be a crime scene.
- Person(s) exhibiting unusual mental or physical symptoms. The individual(s) could be under the influence of drugs, or otherwise need medical or psychiatric assistance.
- Person(s) going from apartment to apartment trying doorknobs. This is possible “casing” for an apartment to enter in order to commit a crime against person or property.
Be on the Alert for Suspicious Situations
- Open or broken doors and windows which could signify a possible burglary in progress or scene of a completed crime.
- Unusual noises, such as gunshots, screaming, and anything suggestive of foul play, danger, or illegal activity.
- Person(s) sitting in parked vehicles for an extended period of time.
- A vehicle driving slowly in the parking lot or structure at night with its lights out.
When encountering such situations, call the Police immediately! Remember that the key to the success of any crime prevention effort is you. Non-emergency questions regarding crime prevention may be answered by calling (310) 825-6111 (UCPD Crime Prevention) or the Administration Office at (310) 983- 1300.
Earthquake Preparedness - Develop an Earthquake Plan
- Prepare yourself, your roommates, and your apartment.
- Decide how and where your roommates or family will reunite if separated.
- Choose an out-of-state friend or relative that separated family members can call after the quake to report their whereabouts and condition.
- Know the danger spots; windows, mirrors, hanging objects, fireplaces, and tall, unsecured furniture.
- Physically place yourself in safe locations.
- Learn first aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) from the local Red Cross chapter or other community organization.
- Keep a list of emergency phone numbers.
If You Live Alone, Develop a “Buddy” System with Friends, Neighbors, and Co-Workers
- Plan how you will help each other in an emergency.
- Make a list of your medications, allergies, special equipment, names, addresses, and telephone numbers of your doctor, pharmacy, family members, friends, and any other important information. Give a copy to each trusted “buddy,” and keep a copy with you at all times.
Prepare by Eliminating Hazards in Your Apartment
- Securely anchor medical equipment, bookcases, hanging plants, and other items.
- Place heavy objects on low shelves. Move beds away from windows.
- Check hallways, exits, doorways, and other areas and remove hazards and obstructions that may impede your safe exit after an earthquake.
- Install security night-lights to provide emergency lighting if power is interrupted.
Gather Emergency Supplies
- Assemble a 72-hour emergency supply kit and a well-stocked first aid kit (see the Emergency Supply Checklist).
- Store extra batteries for hearing aids, wheelchairs, and other battery-operated equipment.
- Keep a mini-survival kit in your car.
Special Tips for Persons with Disabilities
Deaf or Hearing-Impaired Residents
Keep a battery-operated television on hand, with fresh batteries, in order to receive close-captioned emergency information if power is out. Store flashlight, pencil, and pad for communicating. Arrange for hearing friends or coworkers to relay information broadcast by radio.
Blind Residents or Those with Impaired Vision
Keep extra canes in strategic areas around the home. Plan alternate evacuation routes from home and office. Store extra pet food and supplies for your guide dog.
Simple Steps to Protect Your Computer System
Surge Protector
Earthquakes can cause damage to the equipment resulting in power interruptions and outages. To protect the computer from damage caused by automatic return of power, always use a surge protector equipped with a circuit breaker on the power supply. To minimize loss of data for larger systems and to provide an opportunity for manual shutdown, an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is recommended.
Protection from Falling Objects
Even minor to moderate earthquakes shake down objects considered safely secured, such as light fixtures, ceiling tiles, hanging plants, top heavy cabinets and furniture standard in any office setting. To protect computer equipment from damage caused by falling objects, keep computer under a protective shelving unit or hutch assembly. Secure any objects or equipment that could be a potential hazard if they fell.
Secure Computer Equipment
Moderate to severe shaking could cause computer equipment to fall from a desk or counter top, or damage hard disk drives that have been left on. To protect against damage to hard disk drives, always turn off the power supply to the disk drive, or utilize a “park” command that may protect that drive from scratching the disk. Also, computer equipment itself may be secured to a desk or counter top using Velcro tabs, strapping, or locked security base.
Back up Data on a Regular Basis
The most effective method of ensuring against significant loss in stored data and certain heartache is to back up all essential data on a regular basis (minimum weekly, perhaps daily) and to store data back up at a separate location from the system.
Avoid Water Hazard Potential
Water lines and pipes are very susceptible to damage from earthquake shaking. Identify locations of water pipes in ceiling and walls and avoid placing computer equipment in areas close to water pipes.
Cover Equipment
An inexpensive way to protect equipment from excessive dust, activated overhead fire protection sprinklers, damage from falling objects, flying glass fragments and other hazards caused by earthquakes is to always leave the computer equipment protected with a cover. Be sure to cover all equipment, such as printers, modems, and other peripheral accessories.
Sturdy and Secure Base
Whether you use a counter top, designer computer table, or your in-laws old poker table, the equipment should be on a sturdy and secure foundation. If the earthquake occurs while you are looking at the screen, this same foundation becomes your own personal protection as well. If you feel that the computer table will not withstand minor shaking, then you must move yourself and the valuable equipment to a safer location. If that is not possible, then always leave the computer safely on the floor where it cannot fall.
Emergency Supply Checklist
Stocking up now on emergency supplies can add to your safety and comfort during and after an earthquake. Store enough supplies for at least 72 hours.
Survival
- Water—2 quarts to 1 gallon per person per day
- First Aid Kit—freshly stocked
- First Aid Book
- Food (packaged, canned, no-cook, baby food, and for special diets)
- Can opener (non-electric)
- Blankets or sleeping bags
- Portable radio, flashlight, and spare batteries
- Essential and prescription medications and glasses
- Fire extinguisher—A-B-C type
- Food and water for service/assistive animals
- Money
Sanitation Supplies
- Feminine and infant supplies
- Toilet paper
- Household bleach
- Toothpaste and toothbrushes
- Bar soap and liquid detergent
- Shampoo
- Large plastic trash bags for trash, waste, and water protection
- Large trash cans
- Newspaper—to wrap garbage and waste
Safety and Comfort
- A whistle to signal for assistance.
- Sturdy shoes
- Heavy gloves for clearing debris
- Candles and matches
- Change of clothing
- Knife or razor blades for cutting up food and other items
- Tent
- Garden hose—for siphoning and fire fighting
Cooking
- Plastic knives, forks, spoons
- Paper towels
- Paper plates and cups
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil
Tools & Supplies
- Ax, shovel, and broom
- Screwdriver, pliers, hammer
- Crescent wrench for turning off gas
- Coil of 1/2” rope
- Plastic tape and sheeting
- Toys to keep children occupied
During an Earthquake - Duck, Cover, and Hold Tips
When you feel an earthquake, duck under a desk, sturdy table or furnishing. Stay away from windows, bookcases, file cabinets, heavy mirrors, hanging plants and other heavy objects that could fall. Watch out for falling plaster or ceiling tiles. Stay under cover until the shaking stops. Hold onto the desk or table. If it moves, move with it. Here are some additional tips for specific locations.
If you’re in a high-rise building, and you are not near a desk or table, move against an interior wall, and protect your head with your arms. Do not use the elevators. Do not be surprised if the fire alarm or sprinkler systems come on.
- If you’re in the kitchen, move away from the refrigerator, stove, and overhead cupboards.
- If you’re in a wheelchair, stay in it. Move to cover if possible, lock the wheels, and protect your head with your arms.
- If you’re outdoors, move to a clear area, away from trees, signs, buildings, or downed electrical wires and poles.
- If you’re on a sidewalk near buildings, duck into a doorway to protect yourself from falling bricks, glass, plaster and other debris.
- If you’re driving, pull over to the side of the road and stop. Avoid overpasses, power lines, and other hazards. Stay inside the vehicle until the shaking is over.
- If you’re in a crowded store or other public place, do not rush for exits. Move away from display shelves containing objects that could fall.
- If you’re in a stadium or theater, stay in your seat and protect your head with your arms. Do not try to leave until the shaking is over. Then leave in a calm, orderly manner.
After an Earthquake - Be Prepared for Aftershocks, and Plan Where You Will Take Cover When They Occur
- Check for injuries. Call 911 or UCPD/UCFD if emergency response is needed. You may also call the 24-Hour Service Line at (310) 825-1315 to obtain additional help. Apply first aid. Do not move seriously injured individuals unless they are in immediate, life threatening danger.
- Do not use the telephone unless there is a serious injury or fire.
- Hunt for hazards. Check for gas and water leaks, broken electrical wiring or cracked sewage lines.
- Report any damage to UA Facilities Management.
- Check food and water supplies. Emergency water may be obtained from water heaters, melted ice cubes, and canned vegetables.
- Turn on the portable radio for instructions and news reports.
- Cooperate fully with public safety officials.
- Do not use your vehicle unless there is an emergency need to do so.
- Keep the streets clear for emergency vehicles.
- Be prepared for aftershocks.
- Stay calm and lend a hand to others.
- If you evacuate, post a message inside your home telling family members where you can be found.
OK Sign
Following a major disaster, available emergency personnel will conduct search and rescue efforts. Given that our resources will likely be overwhelmed initially, it is imperative that residents do their part to assist us by verifying that everyone in their unit is “OKAY’ and by placing the “OK sign” in a location most visible from the public right-of-way (e.g., front door or window). This lets us know that the residents are okay and we can go directly to those who need immediate assistance. If, when disaster strikes, residents can’t access a printed sign, they can create their own “OK sign” (simply write the word “OK” in large letters on a piece of paper).
