NCPSPS 2020

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Information Sources | Weather Advisory | Community Resource Centers

Latest News

10/27 4:45pm: PG&E is planning to transition the power for the GV & NC customers that had their power augmented by local generation at PG&E substations. As they transition, these customers may experience a gap in power service.

10/27 10:45am: PG&E has extended the “all-clear” to areas of Grass Valley & Nevada City for the current PSPS event. PG&E has begun inspecting the lines in these areas, but power may not be restored until tonight, exact time TBA.

10/26 4:40pm: PG&E has given the areas of Lake of the Pines, Penn Valley & Lake Wildwood the weather “all-clear” for the current PSPS event. PG&E has begun inspecting the lines in these areas, but power may not be restored until tomorrow. Other impacted PSPS areas such as Grass Valley and Nevada City have not received the weather “all-clear” at this time. Continue to check PG&E updates website for the most accurate information. CRCs will remain open until Nevada County is near 100% restoration.

10/25 4:00pm: As PG&E begins turning off power, some GV & NC customers will have their power augmented by local generation at PG&E substations.  As power transitions from commercial to generator there may be a 1-4 hr gap in service.  Please be patient & check for http://PGE.com/PSPSupdates.

10/25 11:28am, from PG&E: To protect public safety, PG&E has upgraded the PSPS WATCH to a WARNING. Weather forecasts including high winds and dry conditions, will require PG&E to turn off power in some parts of our service area.

10/25 9:00am: There will be 4 PG&E Community Resource Centers (CRCs) open today in Nevada County for customers affected by PSPS event. For hours, locations, and details, please visit: https://pgealerts.alerts.pge.com/updates/psps-events/

10/24 2:30pm: PG&E has announced a possible PSPS event for Nevada County. Power shutoffs estimated to occur Sunday, October 25, between 2:00-6:00pm. As of now, restoration time is estimated to be on Tuesday, October 27, exact time TBA. Read more from the Nevada County Office of Emergency Services and for more information visit PG&E‘s PSPS updates page.

Information Sources

Ready Nevada County Dashboard

An up-to-date, searchable map with current PSPS zones is available:

Preparedness Resources

Stay prepared during a Red Flag Warning.

Status Updates

Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) Status Language and Definitions:

  • PSPS Warning: A PSPS Watch will be upgraded to a Warning when forecasted conditions show that a safety shutoff will be needed, and that it is going to happen soon. Whenever possible, Warning notifications will be sent approximately four to 12 hours in advance of the power being shutoff.
  • PSPS Watch:  Whenever possible, an initial Watch notification will be sent two days in advance of a potential PSPS event, followed by an additional Watch notification one day before the potential PSPS event, notifying customers of the possibility of a PSPS event in their area based on forecasted conditions.

Weather Advisory/Air Quality

Update 10/24 2:40pm: There will be 4 @PGE4Me Community Resource Centers (CRCs) open tomorrow in Nevada County (https://pgealerts.alerts.pge.com/updates/psps-events/…):
– Foothills Event Center, GV
– Madelyn Helling Library, NC
– NSJ Community Center, NSJ
– Penn Valley Community Church, PV

More #PSPS tips at http://ReadyNevadaCounty.org.

Weather Advisory Language and Definitions:

  • Red Flag Warning: Take Action. Be extremely careful with open flames. National Weather Service issues a Red Flag Warning when fire conditions are ongoing or expected to occur shortly.
  • Fire Weather Watch: Be Prepared. A watch means critical fire weather conditions are possible but not imminent or occurring.

Community Resource Centers

NCPSPS 2020

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Information Sources | Weather Advisory | Community Resource Centers

Latest News

9/28 12:50pm: PG&E has given the weather “all clear” for the current PSPS event in Nevada County! PG&E helicopters are flying out of our Nevada County Airport to begin inspecting lines and expects most power to be restored by late tonight. PG&E Community Resource Centers will remain open until we have 100% restoration in our area. More here.

9/27 12:30pm: Due to favorable forecasted weather conditions, expected #PSPS outages for Nevada County have reduced to 2,887 customers beginning de-energization later this afternoon. More information from PG&E here: bit.ly/347I39K

9/27 8:30am: PG&E is reporting that Customer Resource Centers are available. In Nevada County, CRCs are located at Elks Lodge in Nevada City and Foothill Event Center in Grass Valley. Find more info at http://PGE.com/PSPSUpdates

9/25 5:30pm: PG&E is reporting that approximately 7,345 customers in Nevada County may be impacted by a potential Public Safety Power Shutoff starting early Sunday morning. Read more from the Nevada County Office of Emergency Services and for more information visit PG&E‘s PSPS updates page.

Information Sources

Ready Nevada County Dashboard

An up-to-date, searchable map with current PSPS zones is available:

Preparedness Resources

Stay prepared during a Red Flag Warning.

Status Updates

Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) Status Language and Definitions:

  • PSPS Warning: A PSPS Watch will be upgraded to a Warning when forecasted conditions show that a safety shutoff will be needed, and that it is going to happen soon. Whenever possible, Warning notifications will be sent approximately four to 12 hours in advance of the power being shutoff.
  • PSPS Watch:  Whenever possible, an initial Watch notification will be sent two days in advance of a potential PSPS event, followed by an additional Watch notification one day before the potential PSPS event, notifying customers of the possibility of a PSPS event in their area based on forecasted conditions.

Weather Advisory/Air Quality

Update 9/24 @ noon: A Fire Weather Watch is in place over the weekend in Nevada County from Saturday, September 26 – Monday, September 28.

Weather Advisory Language and Definitions:

  • Red Flag Warning: Take Action. Be extremely careful with open flames. National Weather Service issues a Red Flag Warning when fire conditions are ongoing or expected to occur shortly.
  • Fire Weather Watch: Be Prepared. A watch means critical fire weather conditions are possible but not imminent or occurring.

Community Resource Centers

Placer County Moves to the “Red Tier”

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The State of California moved Placer County into the State’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy ‘red’ tier – further easing restrictions in the county. Sectors that can open indoors with modifications include restaurants, places of worship, gyms and fitness centers, movie theaters and personal care services.

The full list of sectors refer to: https://covid19.ca.gov/safer-economy/

For a summary of which activities are allowed at each tier, see: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/CDPH%20Document%20Library/COVID-19/Dimmer-Framework-August_2020.pdf

End of Placer County Local Health Emergency

In addition, the Placer County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a resolution declaring the end of Placer County’s local health emergency on Tuesday, September 8.

Since the board’s ratification of the local health emergency March 9, the county has and will continue to work diligently to manage local disease spread – sharing community health information; reporting COVID-19 case dynamics at board meetings; providing a COVID-19 dashboard for community reference; addressing the needs of vulnerable populations; and clarifying state guidance so local businesses can reopen responsibly and consistent with state public health orders and safety protocols.

While acknowledging that California’s state of emergency and Department of Public Health orders, directives and guidance remain in full effect in Placer County, the resolution expresses the board’s concerns that the state framework for measuring COVID-19 mischaracterizes the current state of disease specifically in Placer County and harms the community’s economic, health, mental and social well-being. 

For more information, see: https://www.placer.ca.gov/6818/Placer-declares-end-of-COVID-19-health-e

NCPSPS 2020

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Information Sources | Weather Advisory | Community Resource Centers

Information Sources

Ready Nevada County Dashboard

An up-to-date, searchable map with current PSPS zones is available:

Preparedness Resources

Stay prepared during a Red Flag Warning.

Status Updates

Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) Status Language and Definitions:

  • PSPS Warning: A PSPS Watch will be upgraded to a Warning when forecasted conditions show that a safety shutoff will be needed, and that it is going to happen soon. Whenever possible, Warning notifications will be sent approximately four to 12 hours in advance of the power being shutoff.
  • PSPS Watch:  Whenever possible, an initial Watch notification will be sent two days in advance of a potential PSPS event, followed by an additional Watch notification one day before the potential PSPS event, notifying customers of the possibility of a PSPS event in their area based on forecasted conditions.

Weather Advisory/Air Quality

Update 9/24 @ noon: A Fire Weather Watch is in place over the weekend in Nevada County from Saturday, September 26 – Monday, September 28.

Weather Advisory Language and Definitions:

  • Red Flag Warning: Take Action. Be extremely careful with open flames. National Weather Service issues a Red Flag Warning when fire conditions are ongoing or expected to occur shortly.
  • Fire Weather Watch: Be Prepared. A watch means critical fire weather conditions are possible but not imminent or occurring.

Community Resource Centers

Jones Fire Recovery and Wildfire Preparedness

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As of the publication of this news item, the Jones Fire is at 705 acres and 85% contained. All evacuation orders and warnings have been lifted, and Nevada County is moving into the recovery phase of this disaster.

As a partner to Nevada County Office of Emergency Services, 211 Connecting Point keeps concerned residents and their families up-to-date.

211 call center staff fielded 1,820 calls last week, helping people connect with information and resources pertaining to the Jones Fire. We sent out 45 updates to over 10,800 people at peek subscribership to our 797979 JONES text code. Our Jones Fire web page was viewed over 25,000 times. Even as some of our staff were impacted by evacuation or temporary power outages, as members of this community, we are proud to serve our friends and neighbors.

Here are some important resources if you were directly impacted by the Jones Fire or evacuations:  

The staff at 211 Connecting Point wish all those impacted by the fire and related evacuations swift recovery. We send our deep appreciation to first responders and staff still on the scene at the Jones Fire working on full containment, and those who are working on wildfires across the state of California.

211 Connecting Point encourages all of our Nevada County callers to sign up for CodeRED. This is the official emergency notification system of Nevada County that will directly notify you via call and text message if there is an evacuation order or warning for your address. Wildfire season has only just begun. It is important to  maintain situational awareness and stay prepared.  Be sure to:

Jones Fire

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Text Alerts | Information Sources | Weather Advisory | Evacuation | Road Closures | Shelter | Recovery

Text Alerts

Get the latest non-emergency information on the Jones Fire
Sign up to receive text alerts from 211.

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    Information Sources

    An up-to-date, searchable visual map with current fire footprint, evacuations zones and status is available at:

    In-person information boards and maps are available at:

    • Raley’s
    • Nevada County Fairgrounds – Gate 2
    • Ready Springs School
    • North San Juan Post Office
    • Eric Rood Administration Center Lobby

    Preparedness Resources

    Weather Advisory

    Weather Advisory Language and Definitions:

    • Red Flag Warning: Take Action. Be extremely careful with open flames. National Weather Service issues a Red Flag Warning when fire conditions are ongoing or expected to occur shortly.
    • Fire Weather Watch: Be Prepared. A watch means critical fire weather conditions are possible but not imminent or occurring.

    UPDATE 8/22/20 @ 11:25PM: Fire Weather Watch Upgraded to a Red Flag Warning Sunday-Monday. Find ways you can prepare for fire weather.

    UPDATE 8/21/20 @ 11:30AM: Thunderstorms with little to no rainfall  are possible once again Sunday – Tuesday. These could produce fire starts, so a Fire Weather Watch has been issued. Remember, always have an emergency plan during fire season in case a fire starts near you.

    Smoke from Several Wildfires Burning in Northern California is Impacting the Sacramento Region. Go to https://readynevadacounty.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3199 for more information.

    Evacuation

    Evacuation Language and Definitions:

    • Evacuation Order: Immediate threat to life and a lawful order to leave now. The area is lawfully closed to public access
    • Evacuation Warning: Potential threat to life and/or property. Those who require additional time to evacuate, and those with pets and livestock should leave now.
    • Shelter in Place: Go indoors. Shut and lock doors and windows. Prepare to self-sustain until further notice and/or contacted by emergency personnel for additional direction.

    Evacuation Orders

    For a visual map and to look up your address, refer to mynevadacounty.com/dashboard

    UPDATE from OES: 8/21/20 @ 6:55PM
    All evacuations have been lifted for the #JonesIncident.

    Visit http://readynevadacounty.org/mobiledashboard.

    Evacuation Warnings

    UPDATE 8/20/20 @ 1:30PM: There are no longer any Evacuation Warnings in place for the Jones Fire.

    Road Closures

    UPDATE 8/22/20 @ 9:00AM
    Highway 49 above Nevada City has reopened to traffic with no restrictions. The roadway was closed for several days due to the Jones Fire.

    Shelter

    Temporary Evacuation Points

    As of 2pm on 8/21/2020, all temporary evacuation points have been closed due to lack of utilization.

    Animal Evacuation

    An animal evacuation shelter has been activated at the Nevada County Fairgrounds, 11228 McCourtney Road in Grass Valley.

    If you need to get into an evacuated area to check on animals, go to the Nevada County Fairgrounds to be placed on a list with animal evacuation. Law enforcement is utilizing that list.

    Call 530-557-5474 for questions about animal evacuation.

    Gold Country Stage and Gold Country Lift are providing transportation for evacuees with animals. Animals must be able to be carried & controlled by their owners. Animals too large to be carried by their owners (e.g. livestock, cows, horses) are not allowed. All service animals are allowed. Contact the County of Nevada Transportation Department at 530-477-0103.

    Recovery Resources

    The Nevada County Relief Fund may provide residents displaced as a result of the Jones Fire with short-term assistance to fill immediate needs such as temporary accommodations, groceries, gas, etc. or make repairs necessary to help get you rehoused. Grantmaking is limited to funds raised; applications will be evaluated by County caseworkers. Apply here.

    Wildfire evacuees may be eligible for cost reimbursement from their insurance company. See the news release from CA Dept. of Insurance.

    Placer Urges Residents to Stay Indoors Amid Looming Heat Wave

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    With high temperatures forecast for the coming week, Placer County Public Health is encouraging residents to avoid prolonged exposure to the heat and take proactive measures to prevent heat-related illness. 

    “Excessive heat poses real dangers, especially to young children, older adults, pregnant women, people with chronic diseases or disabilities and people who are socially isolated,” said Mike Romero, Placer County public health manager. 

    “In past heat spells we’ve seen very little use of our cooling centers at Placer libraries, so we feel confident we’ll be able to work directly with those who don’t have access to a cool space to find tailored solutions to keep them safe from the heat and COVID-19.”

    The new 211 Placer information and referral system is online and ready to help connect Placer residents with social services and resources to keep them cool and safe.

    Placer County Public Health and Office of Emergency Services will continue to monitor the weather and community needs and have plans in place to open cooling centers in compliance with prescribed state COVID-19 guidance if the need arises.

    To help beat the heat residents should:

    • Stay hydrated by regularly drinking water or other nonalcoholic beverages;
    • Use home air conditioners; 
    • Use portable electric fans to exhaust hot air from rooms and draw in cooler air;
    • Take cool baths or showers or use cool compresses to prevent overheating;
    • Minimize direct exposure to the sun;
    • Eat light, cool, easy-to-digest foods such as fruit and salads;
    • Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothes, as well as wide-brimmed hats to protect the face and neck;
    • Wear sunglasses that provide 100% UVA and UVB protection;
    • Apply sunscreen liberally before going outdoors;
    • Check on older, sick or frail people who may need help responding to the heat;
    • Know the symptoms of excessive heat exposure. Heat-related illnesses include cramps, exhaustion and heat stroke. Warning signs can include heavy sweating, muscle cramps, weakness, headaches, nausea, vomiting, paleness and dizziness;
    • Avoid leaving children or pets alone in cars for any amount of time; and
    • Do not exercise outdoors during the hottest parts of the day.

    Residents should seek medical attention if they experience rapid, strong pulses; feel delirious; or have a body temperature above 102 degrees.

    Seniors are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illness and may not realize when they are in danger. Certain medications, health conditions or poorer circulation can limit their ability to sweat and cool themselves effectively. Residents are encouraged to check in with the seniors in their lives and call 211 if they need any support or services.

    People in Placer County can access 211 in multiple ways:

    • PHONE: Dial 2-1-1 (or 1-833-DIAL211; for TTY: 1-844-521-6697) to speak with a call specialist. Language interpretation is available.
    • TEXT: Text your zip code to 898211. Your text plan’s rates will apply.
    • ONLINE: Visit 211Placer.org to access an online searchable database and to chat with or email specialists.

    More heat safety tips are also available on the ReadyPlacer.org website.

    OES Seeks Feedback on CodeRED Emergency Alert Test

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    CodeRED_Survey-Sq-v2

    August 12, 2020, the Office of Emergency Services conducted a test of Nevada County’s CodeRED Emergency Alert System and they seek your feedback. Share your experience by completing the emergency alert test Community Survey!

    Feedback is requested whether or not you received an alert. Complete the survey here: ReadyNevadaCounty.org/EmergencyAlertSurvey. 

    More than 150 surveys have already been submitted providing valuable information about the emergency alert test. Many residents shared that the alert appeared to be a sales or spam call due to an automated announcement preceding the notification. The Office of Emergency Services has taken steps to prevent this from happening in the future. Moving forward, alerts will begin with a recording of a human voice that will state, “CodeRED Emergency Alerts from County of Nevada“. 

    211 Nevada County received over 40 CodeRED sign-ups on the day of the test. Normally 211 signs up 60-80 new users in a month.

    Find Helpful Quick Links Below:

    Countywide Test of Emergency Alert Systems Scheduled for August 12

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    On August 12, the County of Nevada Office of Emergency Services and the Town of Truckee are teaming up to issue simultaneous tests of the CodeRED and Nixle Everbridge Emergency Alert Systems. 

    All Nevada County residents are advised to prepare by registering for CodeRED Emergency Alerts in one of the following ways:

    CodeRED Emergency Alerts will display as originating from 866-419-5000 or 855-969-4636 on caller ID and Residents are encouraged to save these numbers.

    The Town of Truckee will conduct a concurrent test of the Nixle Everbridge Emergency Alert System which serves Town of Truckee residents. Truckee residents are encouraged to register for Nixle emergency alerts, in addition to CodeRED, which serves unincorporated Eastern Nevada County, and all Western Nevada County. Truckee Police Department and Truckee Fire Protection District utilize the Nixle Everbridge Emergency Alert System as the primary method of communication during critical incidents. Both residents and visitors are encouraged to subscribe to stay informed in the event of an emergency. 

    Residents are encouraged to utilize the user-friendly Nixle Everbridge application on mobile devices. Simply text “APP” to 888-777 to receive a link to download the Everbridge Mobile Application. Complete your registration by downloading, installing and opening the app. Insert 96161 to subscribe to the Truckee Police Department and Truckee Fire Protection District. 

    Both CodeRED and Nixle Everbridge are high-speed mass notification systems designed to notify residents in the event of an emergency. Emergency alerts are one of many communication tools utilized by local government in the event of an emergency, and testing these systems is an important part of emergency planning. 

    These tools are not a guaranteed source of information, and residents should be prepared and remain situationally aware.

    Learn more at ReadyNevadaCounty.org

    Countywide Test of Emergency Alert Systems Scheduled for August 12

    Posted on

    On August 12, the County of Nevada Office of Emergency Services and the Town of Truckee are teaming up to issue simultaneous tests of the CodeRED and Nixle Everbridge Emergency Alert Systems. 

    All Nevada County residents are advised to prepare by registering for CodeRED Emergency Alerts in one of the following ways:

    CodeRED Emergency Alerts will display as originating from 866-419-5000 or 855-969-4636 on caller ID and Residents are encouraged to save these numbers.

    The Town of Truckee will conduct a concurrent test of the Nixle Everbridge Emergency Alert System which serves Town of Truckee residents. Truckee residents are encouraged to register for Nixle emergency alerts, in addition to CodeRED, which serves unincorporated Eastern Nevada County, and all Western Nevada County. Truckee Police Department and Truckee Fire Protection District utilize the Nixle Everbridge Emergency Alert System as the primary method of communication during critical incidents. Both residents and visitors are encouraged to subscribe to stay informed in the event of an emergency. 

    Residents are encouraged to utilize the user-friendly Nixle Everbridge application on mobile devices. Simply text “APP” to 888-777 to receive a link to download the Everbridge Mobile Application. Complete your registration by downloading, installing and opening the app. Insert 96161 to subscribe to the Truckee Police Department and Truckee Fire Protection District. 

    Both CodeRED and Nixle Everbridge are high-speed mass notification systems designed to notify residents in the event of an emergency. Emergency alerts are one of many communication tools utilized by local government in the event of an emergency, and testing these systems is an important part of emergency planning. 

    These tools are not a guaranteed source of information, and residents should be prepared and remain situationally aware.

    Learn more at ReadyNevadaCounty.org

    Grass Valley & Truckee Small Business PPE Distribution Success

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    In just 6 days, approximately 1,300 gallons of hand sanitizer and 314,000 surgical masks were given to more than 1,000 small businesses from Truckee to Penn Valley. The Nevada County spirit was on full display as volunteers from civic organizations, athletic clubs, service groups, chambers of commerce, special districts and local agencies banded together to support the Office of Emergency Services in providing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to small businesses and non-profit organizations. In total, 170 volunteers ranging from teens to retirees and representing more than 20 organizations helped during the distribution period.

    “I feel so much more secure knowing that we’ve got a stash of supplies that we can freely hand out without penny-pinching and withholding from our staff…We’re well set up so that no matter what comes in the future, we won’t get caught like we did in March where there just wasn’t anything
    available. Thank you so much for getting us well-positioned for whatever the next few months hold for us. It’s really helpful to have those extra supplies. Thank you, thank you, thank you,” says Holly Verbeck from Hey Chef who received supplies in Truckee.

    In addition to the PPE that was made available through the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) in collaboration with the Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA), small businesses were able to get evacuation tags and emergency planning materials from the county Office of Emergency Services and the Sheriff’s Office. In Truckee, businesses received information on how to complete the 2020 Census, and educational community resource pamphlets and flyers.

    “With limited in-person outreach this summer, we felt it was a valuable opportunity to share tools to help Nevada County get ready for the possibility of a wildfire or Public Safety Power Shutoff,” said Jenn Tamo, Senior Administrative Analyst with Office of Emergency Services, who helped coordinate the effort. “It was wonderful to be reminded of how our community comes together during challenging times. This truly could not have happened without the incredible assistance from volunteers and organizations like 211 with their Volunteer Hub that mobilized quickly to bring everyone together,” she adds.

    As a bonus, South Fork Vodka was inspired to add a donation of 300 gallons of hand sanitizer in various sizes to the donation bounty. “They were working alongside us at both locations on the distribution days. There are so many people and organizations to thank. We could not have done this without them, or the generous donations of bags from Grocery Outlet, Mountain Hardware, Raley’s O-N-E Market, SPD Market, and Connecting Point,” adds Courtney Henderson, who coordinated the distribution effort in Truckee.

    In addition to the 170 volunteers who made this event possible, of special note, the County Office of Emergency Services would like to thank the following partners:

    Cal Office of Emergency Services
    California Census 2020
    Connecting Point
    Economic Resource Council
    Grass Valley Chamber of Commerce
    Grass Valley Downtown Association
    NC TECH
    Nevada City Chamber of Commerce
    Nevada County Association of Realtors
    Nevada Union Athletics
    Rotary International
    Sierra Business Council
    SPD Market
    Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation
    The Center for the Arts
    Town of Truckee
    Truckee Chamber of Commerce
    Truckee Downtown Merchants Association
    Truckee Tahoe Airport Community Partner
    Truckee Welcome Center
    Truckee-Donner Recreation & Park District

    Truckee Dates Announced: County of Nevada Providing Free PPE to Small Businesses

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    PPE Requests must be made in advance: https://bit.ly/SmallBusinessPPETruckee

    The County of Nevada Office of Emergency Services (OES) is offering local small businesses and non-profits with 25 or less employees a 30-day supply of masks and hand sanitizer for each employee at no cost. On July 28, 29, and 30, Eastern Nevada County businesses and organizations can pick up their no-cost Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at the Truckee Rodeo Grounds from 8am-1pm.

    Small businesses and non-profit organizations with less than 25 employees are eligible for the no-cost PPE. To request PPE, small business owners must complete an online application in advance to expedite the processing and distribution of the PPE. Please use this link to sign up: https://bit.ly/SmallBusinessPPETruckee.

    Five pallets of materials have been delivered into Truckee for the distribution, including over 100,000 masks and 860 gallons of hand sanitizer. Distribution site and volunteer coordinator, Courtney Henderson, said that, “We need to be doing everything we can to prioritize the health of our local businesses and organizations, including keeping their employees safe and healthy and minimizing the spread of Covid-19. This program is critical to achieving all of those goals. We hope that any local business or organization that has less than 25 employees will come out and pick up their no-cost PPE.”

    Those picking up their no-cost PPE will also receive an information packet, with Covid-19 mitigation best practices, business and social services information, and Census completion flyers.

    The program is intended to reach small local businesses and organizations, with a particular focus on hard-toreach businesses and non-profits. At this time, public schools, hospitals, grocery stores, and manufacturers are ineligible for the program because these institutions are served by other programs that offer PPE.

    The PPE is being provided from the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services and being distributed as a partnership between the County of Nevada, Town of Truckee, Sierra Business Council, Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation, Truckee Chamber of Commerce, Truckee Downtown Merchants Association, the Truckee Welcome Center, Truckee Tahoe Airport, and Truckee-Donner Recreation & Park District.

    Questions for Eastern Nevada County pick up?
    Contact: County of Nevada Office of Emergency Services
    OES@co.nevada.ca.us, 530-557-5677

    County of Nevada Providing Free PPE to Small Businesses

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    The Nevada County Office of Emergency Services (OES) is offering local small business owners with 25 or less employees a 30-day supply of masks and hand sanitizer for each employee at no cost. This personal protective equipment (PPE) has been made available to California small businesses through the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) in collaboration with the Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA).

    Small businesses may pick up PPE at one of two locations in Nevada County, either in Grass Valley which will serve Western Nevada County, or in Truckee, which will serve Eastern Nevada County. Details on Truckee times and locations coming soon.To request PPE, small business owners must complete an online application in advance in order to expedite the processing and distribution of PPE. Please use this link to sign up: https://bit.ly/SmallBusinessPPERequestForm.

    After completing the online PPE request form, small businesses should print the first page of their confirmation email to serve as a receipt. The printed receipt will be exchanged for the PPE, July 21-23.Small businesses may send a family member, volunteer, or employee as a proxy to pick up the protective equipment. OES recommends completing the form right away as this opportunity is available while supplies last.The program is intended to reach small local businesses and organizations, with a focus on hard-to-reach businesses and non-profits. At this time, public schools, hospitals, grocery stores, and manufacturers are ineligible for the program because these institutions are served by other programs that offer PPE.

    OES seeks volunteers to assist with the distribution in Grass Valley. Folks willing to work a 3.5-hour shift should sign up online at Connecting Point’s Volunteer Hub here: https://bit.ly/PPEVolunteer.

    Grass Valley Pickup Location:
    Former County Corporation Yard
    12548 Loma Rica Drive, Grass Valley, CA 95945
    Tuesday, July 21 -Thursday, July 23
    9:00 A.M.-6:00 P.M.

    Questions for Western Nevada County pick up?
    Contact: County of Nevada Office of Emergency Services
    OES@co.nevada.ca.us, 530-557-5677

    Countywide Test of Emergency Alert Systems Scheduled for August 12

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    On August 12, the County of Nevada Office of Emergency Services and the Town of Truckee are teaming up to issue simultaneous tests of the CodeRED and Nixle Everbridge Emergency Alert Systems. 

    All Nevada County residents are advised to prepare by registering for CodeRED Emergency Alerts in one of the following ways:

    CodeRED Emergency Alerts will display as originating from 866-419-5000 or 855-969-4636 on caller ID and Residents are encouraged to save these numbers.

    The Town of Truckee will conduct a concurrent test of the Nixle Everbridge Emergency Alert System which serves Town of Truckee residents. Truckee residents are encouraged to register for Nixle emergency alerts, in addition to CodeRED, which serves unincorporated Eastern Nevada County, and all Western Nevada County. Truckee Police Department and Truckee Fire Protection District utilize the Nixle Everbridge Emergency Alert System as the primary method of communication during critical incidents. Both residents and visitors are encouraged to subscribe to stay informed in the event of an emergency. 

    Residents are encouraged to utilize the user-friendly Nixle Everbridge application on mobile devices. Simply text “APP” to 888-777 to receive a link to download the Everbridge Mobile Application. Complete your registration by downloading, installing and opening the app. Insert 96161 to subscribe to the Truckee Police Department and Truckee Fire Protection District. 

    Both CodeRED and Nixle Everbridge are high-speed mass notification systems designed to notify residents in the event of an emergency. Emergency alerts are one of many communication tools utilized by local government in the event of an emergency, and testing these systems is an important part of emergency planning. 

    These tools are not a guaranteed source of information, and residents should be prepared and remain situationally aware.

    Learn more at ReadyNevadaCounty.org

    Placer Community Foundation Grant Supports 211 Placer COVID-19 Helpline

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    Connecting Point announced today the award of a $10,000 grant from the Placer Community Foundation to support the operation of the 211 Placer COVID-19 Helpline.

    Placer County residents can call 2-1-1 to connect to up-to-date information on COVID-19 testing and State-issued guidance.

    The Placer County COVID-19 Helpline has been in operation since the outbreak of the pandemic. Placer County’s Health and Human Services department recently transitioned operations of the general information helpline to Connecting Point, which maintains a regional 211 call center and will launch 211 Placer in July. 211 is a free, confidential, multilingual resource and information hub. 211 connects people with community programs and services through a searchable web page and 24/7 local call center.

    “Connecting Point is a trusted community partner,” says Eileen Speaker, Grants Manager for Placer Community Foundation. “We are glad to support this important service through our COVID-19 Response Fund that connects Placer County residents to services and supports.”

    Jeff Brown, Director of Placer County Health & Human Services remarks, “It’s a great example of partnership and collaboration to meet community needs. We’re all in this together.”

    To connect to the 211 Placer COVID-19 Helpline dial 2-1-1 or 1-833-DIAL211, text your zip code to 898211 (your text plan’s rate will apply) or connect to resources online at 211Placer.org.

    About Connecting Point

    Connecting Point is a public agency dedicated to providing programs and services that promote the health and independence of the people of our community.

    About Placer Community Foundation

    Placer Community Foundation is a public charity established to assist donors in building an enduring source of charitable funds to meet the changing needs and interests of the community.

    State Releases COVID-19 Guidance for Political Protest Gatherings

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    Protesting or demonstrating is one of our fundamental rights and a way to express ourselves. However, due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, it is important to do it safely. To this end, the State has updated their guidelines to include political protest gatherings. It is strongly recommended that those exercising their right to engage in political expression, should utilize alternative channels, such as the many online and broadcasting platforms available in the digital age, in place of in-person gatherings. 

    However, state public health directives do not prohibit in-person protests as long as:

    • attendance is limited to 25% of the relevant area’s maximum occupancy, as defined by the relevant local permitting authority or other relevant authority, or a maximum of 100 attendees, whichever is lower
    • physical distancing of six feet between persons or groups of persons from different households is maintained at all times.

    Failure to maintain adequate physical distancing may result in an order to disperse or other enforcement action. Face coverings are strongly recommended.

    Participants must maintain a physical distance of six feet from any uniformed peace officers and other public safety personnel present, unless otherwise directed, and follow all other requirements and directives imposed by local health officers and law enforcement, or other applicable authorities. This limitation on attendance will be reviewed at least once every 21 days, beginning May 25, 2020. This review will assess the impacts of these imposed limits on public health and provide further direction as part of a phased-in restoration of gatherings that implicate the First Amendment.

    Volunteers Needed for Green Waste Collection Events

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    Nevada County Fire Safe Council is seeking volunteers for the 2020 Free Residential Green Waste Collection days.

    With 3 sites and 18 collection days, volunteers have many opportunities to choose from. Sites are in Grass Valley, Penn Valley, and Alta Sierra. Volunteers can sign up for shifts at different sites on different days if they like.

    Volunteers at each collection site will coordinate traffic, collect participant information, track loads received using a tablet/iPad, answer questions, and perform an initial inspection to ensure invasive species (blackberry, Scotch broom, poison oak) are not in the loads of green waste.

    To volunteer, visit the Volunteer Hub website or call 2-1-1 (or 1-833-DIAL211).

    Details

    Each shift will be from 9am-3pm. The collections will take place on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays of each of the following weeks:

    • May 17, 18, 19
    • May 24, 25, 26
    • May 31, June 1, 2
    • June 7, 8, 9
    • June 14, 15, 16
    • June 21, 22, 23

    Sign up for as many time slots as you are willing to take.

    QUALIFICATIONS & TRAINING:

    • Must be 18 or older. Can be 16 or 17 if attending with an adult.
    • Special measures will be put in place to ensure this is a no-contact event, keeping volunteers safe from potential exposure to the COVID-19 virus. This includes training delivered via video conference, or via YouTube. Completion of a short quiz will be required after the training, as well.
    • We will train you on the use of the tablets/iPads to check-in residents and show you how to spot invasive species in loads of green waste.
    • Fire Safe Council requires both liability and media releases (permission to use pictures of you doing the work)

    WHAT TO BRING:

    A smile, a water flask, a camp chair if you need to sit down, and perhaps some sunscreen and a hat. We’ll provide everything else you need that day.

    BACKGROUND:

    Cost for green waste removal remains a significant obstacle for property owners when it comes to fuels reduction. In response to this obstacle, the Fire Safe Council of Nevada County (FSCNC) hosted a 2019 Green Waste Event, resulting in removal of over 500 tons of green waste from Western Nevada County.

    Based on the enthusiastic response by the community FSCNC will continue this event in 2020, partnering with the Nevada County Office of Emergency Services to provide this valuable service to residents for a total of 18 days in May and June, in order to further reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire in the community.

    The collection and processing of this green waste will also reduce the number of burn piles in the county, which can irritate the lungs of residents who already face respiratory challenges. If their respiratory system is already compromised, contracting COVID-19 may be even more of a threat to them.

    The objective this year is to expand upon an already successful event, continuing to provide a cost-effective way for residents of Western Nevada County to dispose of their residential green waste at three convenient locations, instead of creating a burn pile to eliminate that waste.

    Thank you for your commitment to making Nevada County safer from wildfire, and to helping those with compromised respiratory systems get through this difficult time. Stay safe, and well.

    Nevada County Increases COVID-19 Testing With New Test Sites

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    May 4th UPDATE: Testing locations confirmed and appointment registration now available

    Western Nevada County

    New COVID-19 testing sites are accepting appointments and will open on TUESDAY, May 5, in Grass Valley. Visit https://lhi.care/covidtesting (or call 1-888-634-1123 during business hours) to see if you are eligible for a test and make an appointment. In Grass Valley, the Grass Valley Veterans Hall will serve as the testing site.

    Eastern Nevada County

    New COVID-19 testing sites are accepting appointments and will open on MONDAY, May 4, in Kings Beach. Visit https://lhi.care/covidtesting (or call 1-888-634-1123 during business hours) to see if you are eligible for a test and make an appointment. In Kings Beach, the North Tahoe Event Center will serve as the testing site.

    Qualifications

    Recently, the California Department of Public Health expanded eligibility for COVID-19 testing. Anyone who meets the testing criteria can be tested at an OptumServe community testing site, including uninsured, underinsured, undocumented and homeless individuals. More information about who is eligible for testing can be found on California Department of Public Health’s website. OptumServe will generate a unique identification number for individuals who do not have a driver license.

    Payment

    If an individual has medical insurance, OptumServe will bill the patient’s medical insurance company. Uninsured individuals may also use the community test site, and their tests will be paid for by the state.

    April 30th: Nevada County will increase COVID-19 testing with new community testing sites

    Following Governor Gavin Newsom’s recent announcement to add more than 80 community testing sites across the state, Nevada County will soon launch a test site in Grass Valley. Another site in neighboring Placer County in the North Tahoe area will also be able to serve nearby Nevada County residents in the Truckee/Tahoe area. Nevada and Placer Counties collaborated on the testing site locations in an effort to ensure that the sites are strategically placed and that people who have had difficulty accessing testing are able to gain that access with the least amount of required travel.

    The new testing sites are scheduled to open next week. The new sites are powered through a partnership with OptumServe, the federal government health services business of Optum, a leading health services innovation company. Testing will be by appointment only. Additional information and location details will be released when appointments become available.

    “These new testing sites will help Nevada County and our neighboring counties dramatically increase testing capacity for those who have had limited access to COVID-19 tests up until now,” said Dr. Ken Cutler, Nevada County Health Officer. “Additional testing locally and statewide will help us work towards a thoughtful and phased reopening.”

    Nevada County is now encouraging all residents with symptoms consistent with COVID-19 to get tested, whether through a provider or through an OptumServe site, as testing capacity has grown countywide.

    To determine where to locate new testing sites, the state looked at rural areas where Californians would have to travel 60 minutes to reach an existing testing site or hospital. That information was then evaluated based on underserved populations, to address known disparities, and median income, so residents have access to testing regardless of socioeconomic status.

    OptumServe has extensive expertise in rapidly deploying and setting up health care services and has worked closely with the military under the leadership of former Army Surgeon General and retired Lieutenant General Patty Horoho, RN.

    “OptumServe is honored to assist California in expanding COVID-19 testing for residents,” said Patty Horoho, CEO of OptumServe. “We are bringing our full commitment and capabilities to serve Californians, including extensive experience conducting large community health events.”

    At maximum capacity, OptumServe will be able to support up to 80 testing sites at one time throughout the state, increasing total testing capacity by more than 10,500 tests per day.

    “Thanks to Nevada County and to OptumServe for the collaboration to make these testing sites possible,” said Charity Dean, M.D., Assistant Director of the California Department of Public Health. “We’re working together as part of the state’s Testing Task Force to ensure regions with the greatest need have access to tests, and these sites are going to be a major component in reaching our testing goals.”

    FAQs on Governor’s Shelter in Place Order

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    The County of Nevada released answers to a large list of Frequently Asked Questions related to Governor Newsom’s Shelter in Place Order (Executive Order N-33-20).

    The order requires all Californians to “shelter-in-place” by remaining at home or at their place of residence, except as necessary to obtain food, care for a relative or friend, get necessary healthcare, or go to an essential job.

    A sample of the questions includes:

    WHAT’S CLOSED?

    • Dine-in restaurants
    • Bars and nightclubs
    • Entertainment venues
    • Gyms and fitness studios
    • Non-essential services

    WHAT CAN’T I DO?

    • You cannot engage in group activities in person with others.
    • You cannot have dinner parties. You cannot invite friends over to your home to hang out.
    • You cannot go to bars.
    • You cannot go to a nail salon or get your hair cut by a stylist or barber.
    • You cannot go shopping for non-essential goods.
    • You cannot take unnecessary trips on public transport or in your car or motorbike.

    IS THIS MANDATORY OR IS IT JUST GUIDANCE?

    It is mandatory. This Order is a legal Order issued under the authority of California law. You are
    required to comply.

    It is critical for everyone to follow the Order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect
    themselves, their loved ones, friends, neighbors and the whole community.

    All persons, businesses, and other entities are required to comply if they do not fall within the
    exemptions that are specified in the Order.

    Read the full document or go to www.mynevadacounty.com/2924/Coronavirus to learn more.

    FAQs on Governor’s Shelter in Place Order

    Posted on

    The County of Nevada released answers to a large list of Frequently Asked Questions related to Governor Newsom’s Shelter in Place Order (Executive Order N-33-20).

    The order requires all Californians to “shelter-in-place” by remaining at home or at their place of residence, except as necessary to obtain food, care for a relative or friend, get necessary healthcare, or go to an essential job.

    A sample of the questions includes:

    WHAT’S CLOSED?

    • Dine-in restaurants
    • Bars and nightclubs
    • Entertainment venues
    • Gyms and fitness studios
    • Non-essential services

    WHAT CAN’T I DO?

    • You cannot engage in group activities in person with others.
    • You cannot have dinner parties. You cannot invite friends over to your home to hang out.
    • You cannot go to bars.
    • You cannot go to a nail salon or get your hair cut by a stylist or barber.
    • You cannot go shopping for non-essential goods.
    • You cannot take unnecessary trips on public transport or in your car or motorbike.

    IS THIS MANDATORY OR IS IT JUST GUIDANCE?

    It is mandatory. This Order is a legal Order issued under the authority of California law. You are
    required to comply.

    It is critical for everyone to follow the Order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect
    themselves, their loved ones, friends, neighbors and the whole community.

    All persons, businesses, and other entities are required to comply if they do not fall within the
    exemptions that are specified in the Order.

    Read the full document or go to www.mynevadacounty.com/2924/Coronavirus to learn more.