Campus Status
Severe Weather Alert: Tropical Storm Hilary
Updated on Aug. 20, 2023 at 1:10 p.m.
As Tropical Storm Hilary approaches our area, we want to emphasize that your safety is our top priority at Life Pacific University. It is essential that each member of our community is well-informed and well-prepared for this storm. Please take the time to carefully read this email and follow the guidelines provided to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you.
After receiving updates from the local authorities and weather channels, we can confirm that Hurricane Hilary has been downgraded to a tropical storm. What we are seeing now is only the moisture ahead of the storm. As tropical storm Hilary gets closer, we will see heavier rain and winds between 20 to 45 miles per hour. LPU maintenance staff took precautions on Saturday by removing patio furniture and other objects that could harm our safety. Do not be concerned if you notice a lack of furniture on campus. We are just taking the necessary precautions. In case of a flash flood or flooding situation, here are some safety tips to prepare yourself and know what to do.
Stay home if you can: If you have the option of staying indoors and not leaving your dorm or home, it is recommended that you do so. Look for a good show to watch or a book to read to keep yourself entertained. As classes will be starting soon, take this opportunity to prepare yourself mentally and physically for the upcoming school year.
Avoid flooded areas: When it’s raining, the weather affects visibility, so it’s important to be cautious while driving. Do not attempt to drive or walk through flooded roads or areas where water is flowing rapidly. Just a few inches of moving water can cause you to lose your footing or cause your vehicle to stall. Stay safe by being mindful of these dangers.
Inspect your vehicle: It is important to ensure that it is in good working condition. You can do this by checking or replacing your windshield wipers, ensuring your tires are not flat or worn out, and checking that your lights function properly. This will help ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.
Be aware of your surroundings: After the tropical storm has subsided, assessing your surroundings for potential damage or hazards is important before stepping outside.
Avoid downed powerlines: It is important to avoid downed power lines for your safety. In case you come across any, promptly inform the local authorities. If you are in San Dimas or on campus, you can dial the non-emergency line of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department at (909) 450-2700. In case of an emergency, dial 9-1-1. If you are elsewhere, ensure you have the contact information of your local police department at hand.
Stay informed: As I mentioned in the prior email, make sure you are listening to reliable sources such as your local news channel, local first responders, or the National Weather Service. Listening to non-reliable sources can cause panic and confusion.
Stay Connected: Reach out to fellow students, faculty, and staff, especially those needing assistance during this time. Offer help to those who might require assistance with preparations.
In case of a power outage: In case we lose power, it is best for you to stay where you are. If it is during the daytime, open blinds and curtains to allow light to come in. If it is during nighttime hours, it is safer to stay in the room you are in, preferably in your bed. If it is a prolonged power outage, we will pass out flashlights so you can get to and from the restroom safely. We do have a surplus of flashlights, but we may have to share if we do not have enough for everyone to have one.
Surplus: We have a surplus of emergency food, water, flashlights, and bedding. If this tropical storm hits us stronger than what is expected, we will activate our campus emergency protocols. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates if needed.
If you encounter anyone who seems distressed or needs assistance, please notify the Office of Campus Safety by calling the 24-hour Safety Line (909) 706-3088 or the appropriate authorities.
Remember, your safety and well-being are of utmost importance to us. I will continue to provide updates and guidance as the situation unfolds. Please remain vigilant, take necessary precautions, and be prepared to adapt to changing circumstances. Let us also remember to keep each other in prayer during this time.
Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions, suggestions, or concerns.
George Bostanic, MA
COO & Vice President of Student Life
877.886.5433 ext.355
Eddie Flores
Director of Safety and Security
909.599.5433 ext. 330
Updated on Aug. 19, 2023 at 8:20 p.m.
This weekend and into Monday, severe weather is anticipated to impact Southern California due to Hurricane Hilary. This storm may bring heavy rain, wind, flooding and other hazards to our region.
As we prepare for the approaching tropical storm Hilary, some of us may feel anxious or uncertain about what to expect. While some community members have experience with hurricanes and tropical storms, many of us do not. Rest assured, we have spoken with local Los Angeles County Sheriff and Fire Department officials, who have confirmed that extra personnel will be patrolling the City of San Dimas starting Saturday morning. They do not anticipate hurricane-level winds, as the storm is projected to be downgraded to a tropical storm by the time it reaches San Diego. The safety of our community is our top priority, and we will continue to monitor the situation and communicate with local authorities throughout the weekend. We will provide regular updates and guidance as the storm progresses if needed.
Here are some safety tips on what to do in the meantime, and stay prepared in case of any emergency.
Stay Informed: Monitor weather updates from reliable sources. Listening to non-reliable sources can cause panic and confusion.
Stay Connected: Reach out to your fellow students, faculty, and staff to ensure everyone is informed and supported. Acts of kindness and empathy strengthen our community.
Create a Kit: Prepare an emergency kit with essentials such as water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, first aid supplies, and necessary medications. This can also serve as your earthquake preparedness kit.
Charge cell phones, tablets, and computers: Ensure your communication devices are fully charged to stay connected with loved ones and receive critical updates.
Secure Property: It’s important to be cautious and secure any outdoor objects that could be blown away in strong winds. While there isn’t a hurricane warning, winds of up to 45 miles per hour are expected. To prevent any harm, please bring bicycles or other items that could be dangerous indoors during periods of high wind.
Designate a Safe Space: Identify a safe area within your residence hall or home to take shelter if needed.
Prayer and Reflection: Use this time to get closer to God through prayer and reflection. Lean on His strength and find comfort in His promises, knowing He is always with us.
During these uncertain times, we can find comfort in Psalm 46:1, which reminds us that God is our refuge and strength. As we face the uncertainty brought by this tropical storm, let us unite in prayer, solidarity, and preparedness.
May the Lord guide and protect us through this difficult time. Let us show compassion and grace to one another, reflecting the love of Christ in all our actions.
Additional information regarding current and forecasted severe weather for the region can be found at the National Weather Service webpage at https://www.weather.gov/.
Thank you for doing your part to stay safe. If you have any questions, suggestions, or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
George Bostanic, MA
COO & Vice President of Student Life
877.886.5433 ext.355
Eddie Flores
Director of Safety and Security
909.599.5433 ext. 330