Emergency Response Systems in Ventura County and Surrounding Areas

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VC Alert is a free service provided by the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services and participating cities. It launched in January 2012.

All 10 cities in Ventura County utilize the VC Alert system - Camarillo, Fillmore, Moorpark, Ojai, Oxnard, Port Hueneme, Santa Paula, Thousand Oaks, Ventura and Simi Valley as well as unincorporated areas of Ventura County.

The VC Alert database includes all listed and unlisted landline telephone numbers serviced by AT&T and Verizon.  If you would like to ensure that you will be contacted on your home phone, cellular phone, work phone, TTY device, email, fax or text messaging, you must register that information using the opt in VC Alert portal. All information you provide will be kept strictly confidential.

VC Alert alerts residents about emergencies and other important community news.  The system enables officials to provide essential information quickly when there is a threat to the health or safety of Ventura County residents. To learn more and to register online, visit www.vcalert.org or call 805.648.9283.

The official Ventura County incident information site is vcemergency.com, which posts up-to-date incident information, public safety power shutoffs, current evacuations, emergency shelters and road closures.

The City of Westlake Village uses Blackboard Connect for telephone emergency response recordings for hazards, warnings, evacuations, updates, etc. Land lines are already in the database but you may register additional lines. westlakevillage.bbcportal.com. More info at www.wlv.org/191/Emergency-Notifications.

The City of Agoura Hills also uses Blackboard Connect for emergency response services at cityofagourahills.bbcportal.com/Entry. More info at www.agourahillscity.org/i-want-to/sign-up/connect-cty. There’s also a call-in emergency information line available at 818.597.7301.

City of Calabasas residents are also encouraged to sign up for emergency updates through its Blackboard Connect system at calabasase911.bbcportal.com/Entry. There’s also a call-in emergency info line available at 818.224.1600.

The City of Malibu’s call-in emergency hotline is 310.456.9982. The city's radio station is WPTD AM 1620. The City of Malibu has its own emergency alerts system at member.everbridge.net/index/453003085613099

Los Angeles County residents in Westlake Village, Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Malibu, etc. can sign up for Alert LA County. a free mass notification system for Los Angeles County residents at www.lacounty.gov/emergency/alert-la.

Ready Ventura County is a local emergency response planning and information reporting site that is used extensively during local emergencies. www.readyventuracounty.org

Ventura County emergency alert radio stations: KVTA 1590 AM, KHAY 100.7 FM, KMLA 103.7 FM (SPANISH)

FEMA Ready.gov Website Provides Emergency Preparedness Tips

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The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) launched Ready.gov to educate and prepare Americans for emergencies, both natural and man-made.  Three key sections of the site are maintaining an emergency supply kit, making a plan and being informed.

Here are FEMA's recommendations for a kit of food, water and supplies to last at least 3 days per person should rescue workers not be able to get to you right away after a disaster/emergency.

  • At least 3 days of water per person, consisting of at least one gallon of water per person, per day.

  • At least 3 days of non-perishable food per person. Things like ready-to-eat canned items, protein or fruit bars, cereal or granola, peanut butter, dried fruit, nuts, crackers, canned juices, high energy foods, food for infants, etc.

  • Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio and extra batteries

  • Flashlights and extra batteries

  • First aid kit with 2 pairs of gloves, sterile dressings, cleansing agent/soap/towelettes, antibiotic and burn ointments, bandages, eye wash solution, thermometer, prescription items (other items to consider...scissors, tweezers, petroleum jelly, aspirin, anti-diarrheal, antacid, laxative)

  • Whistle to signal for help

  • Dust mask to help filter contaminated air; plastic sheeting and duct tape for shelter

  • Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation

  • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

  • Manual can opener if you have canned food

  • Local maps

  • Cell phone with chargers and backup battery.

Other items to consider:

  • Prescription medications and glasses

  • Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medications, antacids or laxatives.

  • Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream

  • Pet food and extra water for your pet

  • Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container

  • Cash and change

  • Emergency reference materials, first aid manual, etc.

  • Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person.

  • Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes.

  • Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners.

  • Fire extinguisher

  • Matches in a waterproof container

  • Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items

  • Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels

  • Paper and pencil

  • Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

  • Since Spring 2020: masks, soap, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes

But don't stop with this list! Visit Ready.gov to learn more about emergency preparedness!

Visit www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/2021-02/ready_checklist.pdf for an amergency supply list.

2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates in Ventura County and Nearby Areas

NOTE THAT THIS INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME AS A RESULT OF CHANGING PANDEMIC CIRCUMSTANCES AND PUBLIC HEALTH ORDERS.

Check out the latest health orders and updates at www.venturacountyrecovers.org.

What’s Opening and When:

UPDATE 6/1/21: Ventura County to enter least restrictive “Yellow Tier” on June 2nd, which increases capacity limits in many business sectors. Full reopening still planned for June 15th.

UPDATE 5/27/21: Ventura County will align its masking guidance with CDC’s guidance effective June 15, 2021. Fully vaccinated people will not be required to wear masks or physically distance indoors or outdoors, except where required by law, including local business and workplace guidance.

UPDATE 5/17/21: Reagan Library to re-open to the public on May 26th

UPDATE 5/13/21: CDC announces if you are fully vaccinated, you can resume activities without wearing a mask or physically distancing, except as required by laws or other local guidance.

UPDATE 4/30/21: Newbury Park Library will open for in-person services on May 13 on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from noon to 4pm.

UPDATE 4/27/21: Harley’s Simi Bowl to reopen on Wednesday, April 28th.

UPDATE 4/25/21: Camarillo Public Library to reopen on Tuesday, April 27th. Hours will be Tuesday through Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm.

UPDATE 4/20/21: The Thousand Oaks Library announced it will be reopening for limited in-person services beginning 4/21 on Wed/Fri 10am to 2pm and Sun 1-4pm.

UPDATE 4/8/21: Chumash Indian Museum in Thousand Oaks to open from 11am to 3pm starting April 10th/11th.

UPDATE 4/7/21: Dave & Buster’s Thousand Oaks is back open, after quite a long hiatus.

UPDATE 4/7/21: AMC Thousand Oaks, Cineopolis Westlake Village and Studio Movie Grill Simi Valley movie theaters reopened several weeks ago. Planned reopenings on May 7th include Regal Camarillo Palace, Regal Simi Valley Civic Center and Regal Janss Marketplace. Regency Agoura Hills has reopened, as have Plaza Stadium Cinemas in Oxnard, Century RiverPark 16 in Oxnard, Roxy Stadium 11 in Camarillo and Century 10 Downtown Ventura.

UPDATE 4/6/21: California Department of Public Health announced today that the state will open to all industries with normal operations effective June 15th if 1) a vaccine supply is sufficient for Californians 16 years or older who wish to be inoculated and 2) there is a consistently low burden of disease in terms of hospitalizations.

UPDATE 4/6/21: Ventura County to move into less restrictive Orange Tier on Wednesday, April 7th.

UPDATE 3/20/21: County of Ventura announces we are poised to move into the less restrictive Orange Tier on April 7th

UPDATE 3/27/21: Harley’s Valley Bowl and Harley’s Camarillo to reopen on March 27th.

UPDATE 3/16/21: Tomorrow the County of Ventura officially moves back into the Red Tier.

UPDATE 3/14/21: The County of Ventura appears poised to move back into the less restrictive Red Tier on Wednesday, March 17th.

UPDATE 3/2/21: Conejo Valley USD announces approval for return to on-campus learning on Monday, March 8th.

UPDATE 2/9/21: COVID vaccine now open to ages 65+ in Ventura County.

UPDATE 2/7/21: Houses of worship can now offer indoor services with capacity limited to 25% (previously limited to outdoor services only).

UPDATE 1/25/21: Regional Stay Home Order has been lifted. Four-week ICU capacity projections for the region are above 15%, the threshold that allows regions to exit the order. This allows Ventura County to return to the “Purple Tier” rules that were in place prior to 12/5/20. This means OUTDOOR operations now allowed for restaurants, gyms, playgrounds, places of worship, museums, etc. INDOOR operations now allowed for hair salons, barbershops, personal care, etc. Retail and libraries can open with 25% capacity.

UPDATE 12/5/20: Regional Stay Home Order goes into effect on Sunday, December 6th, for a minimum of 3 weeks, as hospital ICU capacity in Southern California has dropped below 15%. Back to take-out only, closed personal care services (e.g. haircuts), 20% capacity at shopping centers, etc.

UPDATE 12/3/20: Regional Stay Home Order announced today goes into effect within 48 hours in regions with less than 15% ICU availability.

UPDATE 11/22/20: Our Los Angeles County neighbors will be restricting in-person dining (indoor and outdoor) for at least 3 weeks beginning 10PM on Wed, 11/25 due to “alarming levels” of COVID-19. Take-out, drive-thru and delivery services continue to be allowed.

UPDATE 11/19/20: Gatherings with members of other households between 10PM and 5AM are banned from November 21st through December 20th in California.

UPDATE 11/17/20: It’s back to the more restrictive “Purple Tier” on 11/18. That means the following sectors cannot operate indoors: gyms, movie theaters, places of worship, family entertainment centers, restaurants, etc.

UPDATE 10/8/20: Certain Ventura County movie theaters will be reopening starting 10/9 at reduced capacity (lesser of 25% or 100 patrons), including AMC Thousand Oaks, several others.

UPDATE 10/6/20: County of Ventura moves into the state's "Red Tier" as of noon today, meaning places of worship, restaurants, movie theaters and museums can be operated indoors at 25% capacity or 100 people, whichever is less, gyms can reopen indoors at 10% capacity (with12 feet distancing required in Ventura County), all personal care services such as massage, tattoos and piercing salons can open indoors, indoor shopping malls can operate at 50% maximum occupancy (instead of 25%). food courts can also open following the state's guidelines for restaurants and indoor retail stores can now operate at 50% capacity (instead of 25%).

UPDATE 10/6/20: Ventura County schools may consider reopening dates as early as October 21st if Ventura County maintains its Red Tier status for two more weeks.

UPDATE 10/6/20: Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History and Sea Center to reopen indoors to the public on October 15th.

UPDATE 9/14/20 (revised 9/16): Ventura County Public Health publishes guidance on celebrating Halloween while following current health orders to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Trick or treating is “not recommended.”

UPDATE 8/31/20: Hair salons, barber shops and malls in Ventura County may reopen indoor operations, provided they comply with safety protocols.

Labor Day Weekend Updates: Santa Barbara County beaches will be temporarily closed for stationary activities Friday, September 4th through Monday, September 7th. Sitting, lying, standing, sunbathing, sightseeing, picnicking and all other non-exercise, passive or sedentary activities on beach parkways will be prohibited.

UPDATE 8/26/20: State of California unveils a new color-coded tier system for what to communicate what sectors can open and how.

UPDATE 7/16/20: Change to previous order on 7/1: Bars that serve food and wineries may open outdoor operations. Bars, pubs, brewpubs, breweries and other businesses licensed to sell alcoholic beverages must close indoor operations, buy may open outdoor operations if they offer sit-down, outdoor, dine-in meals. Alcohol can only be sold in the same transaction as a meal. Wineries and wine tasting rooms may open outdoor operations even if they do not offer meals. Only members of the same household may sit together at the table. Maximum on-premises time is 60 to 90 minutes. Bars must be closed to the public between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m.

UPDATE 7/13/20: Effective immediately, Ventura and Los Angeles Counties (along with 28 other California counties must close fitness centers, places of worship, offices for non-critical sectors, hair salons, barber ships and malls due to the the Covid-19 situation.

Counties that have remained on the County Monitoring List for 3 consecutive days will be required to shut down the following industries or activities unless they can be modified to operate outside or by pick-up.

  • Gyms and fitness centers

  • Places of worship and cultural ceremonies, like weddings and funerals

  • Offices for non-critical infrastructure sectors

  • Personal care services, like nail salons and body waxing

  • Hair salons and barbershops

  • Shopping malls

Shops that offer tattoos, piercings and electrolysis may not be operated outdoors and must close.

UPDATE 7/1/20: As of today, both Ventura and Los Angeles Counties have new restrictions for at least 3 weeks due to increase rate of spread of the virus. Closure of all brewpubs, breweries, bars and pubs, both indoors and outdoors (UPDATED 7/16/20). Closure of all indoor (not outdoor) operations of restaurants, wineries and tasting rooms, movie theaters, family entertainment centers, zoos, museums and cardrooms. See THIS LINK.

Harley’s Valley Bowl is opening on Friday, June 12th

Canyon Club Agoura is now open as of May 30th

Rancho Simi Community Pool planned to reopen on June 22nd

Ventura Botanical Gardens back open effective June 11th

Petersen Automotive Museum to reopen on June 19th

Ventura parks and beaches

Santa Barbara Zoo reopens June 23rd

Pleasant Valley Aquatic Center is reopening on June 29th

Harley’s Bowl Camarillo reopened on June 17th

Community Pool at CLU to reopen for lap swim only on June 22nd (must reserve lane online)

Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles is reopening June 19th

Buena Lanes reopened on June 15th

The Bank of America Performing Arts Center Thousand Oaks has announced it will remain closed for live concerts until January 2021.

Golf N Stuff Ventura reopened on June 17th

Defy Extreme Sports (formerly called Dojoboom) reopened June 20th

SkyZone Ventura is reopening on June 26th

Iceoplex Simi Valley reopened on June 12th (public sessions not available yet)

America’s Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College indicates it will remain closed until “at least July 15th…possibly longer.

Outdoor portions of Strathearn Historical Park & Museum opened on June 15th.

The Moxi, Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation in Santa Barbara reopens to members only on July 9th

Boulderdash Indoor Rock Climbing is now back open to members and punchcard holders at both Thousand Oaks and Ventura locations.

LA County beaches are closed to the public 7/3 5 am to 7/6 5 am

Ventura County beaches will be closed from 5:00 a.m. on July 3 through July 6 at 5 a.m. to prevent crowding that results in the spread of COVID-19. Parking lots and restrooms will also be closed.

According to CBS, Santa Barbara County beaches will also be closed July 3rd, 4th and 5th.Four-week ICU capacity projections for the region are above 15%, the threshold that allows regions to exit the order.


NOTE: There have been so many changes and updates to the various orders described below since announcement of stay at home orders in mid-March that we recommend visiting the following sites for the latest updates:

Ventura County health order updates: www.vcemergency.com (the latest update to the Stay at Home order dated 5/29 extends the order to 6/14)

Ventura County reopening updates: www.vcreopens.com

Los Angeles County updates: covid19.lacounty.gov

COVID-19, the highly contagious new coronavirus that originated in Wuhan, China in December 2019, has taken the world by storm. On March 11th, the World Health Organization labeled COVID-19 as a pandemic.

Numerous measures are being put into place in order to stop the spread of this infectious respiratory disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend the following for those at a higher risk of getting very sick from the illness:

  • Keep space between yourself and others; e.g. practice “social distancing.”

  • Stay away from others who are sick, limit contact and wash your hand well and often.

  • Avoid crowds as much as possible. Avoid cruises and air travel.

  • Wash with soap and water at least 20 seconds.

On March 12th, Governor Newsom issued an executive order that, among other things, gatherings of over 250 people should be cancelled or postponed until at least the end of March (this has since been extended to TBA).

Here is a compilation of mostly local updates on what is being done to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

GENERAL INFORMATION

The VCEmergency.com website is updated frequently with COVID-19 updates at www.vcemergency.com. The site tells you what to do and where to go if you believe you have contracted the virus. The number of positive COVID-19 cases reported on that site are updated HERE.

CDC updates at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html. The number of total cases and deaths in the U.S. are reported there and summarized here at THIS LINK.

The World Health Organization recognized COVID-19 as a pandemic on March 11, 2020., when there were 118,000 cases (5.7 million cases as of 5/29) in 114 countries, leading to 4,291 deaths (356,736 deaths as of 5/29). The WHO maintains a dashboard of COVID-19 cases around the world at THIS LINK and are compiled daily HERE.

3/19/20 6:44pm; The entire State of California has been placed on “Stay at Home” orders until further notice. Details at THIS LINK. Outdoor activities are not completely banned, but residents must maintain a social distance of at least six feet away from other people.

3/26/20: The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act that was signed into law. CARES provides over $2 trillion in relief to businesses and individuals. One aspect of this legislation is Recovery Rebate Checks that are discussed in detail HERE.

3/17/20: Ventura County Public Health announced the following types of businesses in Ventura County are ordered to close effective 12:01 a.m. March 18th until changed by the county: Bars and nightclubs that do not serve food, movie theaters, live performance venues, bowling alleys and arcades, gyms, fitness centers and aquatic centers and wineries, breweries, and tap rooms that provide tastings. Anyone 75+ or 70+ with health issues are ordered to shelter in place of residence until April 1st. Restaurants may only prepare and offer food for delivery, pick-up or drive-thru. UPDATE: Three days later, on 3/20/20, the order is now “Stay Well at Home” through April 20th.UPDATE 4/14/20: The Ventura County Stay at Home Order will be extended to May 15th according to the VC Star on April 14th.

UPDATE 4/18/20: VC Public Health issued a new Stay at Home Order tonight, applicable at 11:59PM tonight until 11:59PM on May 15th. Here are some highlights of changes from the previous order:

1. Public/private gatherings of six or more are prohibited (previously 2 or more).
2. Non-Essential businesses of 10 or less with no physical interaction with the public may operate (with proper social distancing protocols in place).
3. Gatherings of up to 10 people are allowed for the purpose of live or virtual presentations if done outside and persons from the same household must be in a motor vehicle with no more than 5 people in the vehicle. Vehicles must be at least 6 fee apart.
4. The list of Essential Activities for outdoor activity now includes golf, tennis and pickleball, among other activities (such as cycling, hiking, gardening, etc.)
5. The list of Essential Businesses has expanded somewhat, to now include drive-thru car washes, auto sales and businesses that support other Essential Businesses.
6. Same as before: Only businesses whose primary business is selling food, beverages, pet supplies or household products (cleaning and personal care) are considered Essential Businesses. If less than a third of a business’s gross sales constituted essential products over the last six months, they are not considered an Essential Business. No clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, furniture, etc. sales.

3/31/20: Ventura County Public Health expanded upon previous orders on 3/17 and 3/20 to include additional limitations and restrictions. Only businesses providing essential food/drinks, pet supplies, household items and auto repair shops and supply stores may operate.

4/9/20: An updated Stay Well at Home Order was issued today by Ventura County Public Health that advises long-term care facilities to relocate COVID-19 patients to hospitals, eliminates gatherings of 2 or more people outside a household (except to operate essential businesses/services), enables bike shops and car dealers to sell online and deliver items to residences only, requires essential businesses to post social distancing protocols and more.

5/12/20: VC Public Health announced that certain additional businesses may begin opening 5/13, with Covic-19 protection measures in place. These include childcare for those outside of the essential workforce, office-based businesses, select service businesses such as car washes, pet grooming and landscaping and outdoor gallery spaces.

5/20/20: The County of Ventura is the first and largest Southern California county to receive approval from the California Department of Public Health to move forward on an accelerated Stage 2 path to reopening. With this approval, Ventura County restaurants can now offer dine-in options and all retail businesses with exterior facing entrances are permitted to have customers inside of their stores, starting Thursday, May 21st.

6/11/20: The VC Health Officer issued an updated health order effective June 11. The order approves implementation of state guidance regarding various types of business and entities such as houses of worship, campgrounds, outdoor recreation, day camps, family entertainment centers, fitness facilities, hotels, eateries, museums, galleries, zoos, etc. The health order is in effect until further notice.

6/18/20: The State of California has mandated the use of face coverings when out and about.

5/26/20: Hair salons and barbershops may apply to reopen beginning 5/27 in Ventura County.

Compilation of COVID-19 guidance on the California Department of Public Health site.

CDC list of disinfectants for use against SARS-CoV-2, the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19 at www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/list-n-disinfectants-use-against-sars-cov-2.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health updated its “Safer at Home” order on April 10th, which extended the order to May 15th (UPDATED ORDER 5/29 EXTENDS ORDER UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE).

MAY 6TH UPDATE: LA COUNTY TO BEGIN LIFTING RESTRICTIONS ON CERTAIN BUSINESSES AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES EFFECTIVE MAY 8TH. Trails and parks to reopen.

LA COUNTY BEACH UPDATES AT beaches.lacounty.gov/covid-19-facility-closures/#beaches.

Fri 4/17: The County of Ventura Parks Department announced that all county day use parks will reopen to pedestrian and bicycle access only. County trails are also open. All county campground parks will continue to be closed. See a list of inland parks at www.ventura.org/parks-department/inland-parks. UPDATE 5/17: Foster Park at 37 Casitas Vista Road in Ventura is closed until further notice due to overcrowding and illegal parking yesterday.

4/30 Update: VC Sheriff announced that parking on PCH Will be closed between County Line Beach and Point Mugu State Beach will be closed. Also closed will be parking between Emma Wood State Beach to the Santa Barbara County line.

SCHOOLS

3/18/20: Ventura County Office of Education announced that all Ventura County school districts will be closed until Monday, May 4th. UPDATE 4/1/20: VCOE announces ALL Ventura School districts will be closed through the remainder of the school year, while distance learning and school meals will continue.

Simi Valley USD announced school is cancelled the week of March 16. Spring break is the following week and current plans are to reopen March 30th. An update will be communicated no later than March 27th. (NOW CLOSED THE ENTIRE SCHOOL YEAR)

Conejo Valley USD announced school is cancelled the week of March 16th and potential extension of closures will be announced prior to Friday, March 20th. UPDATE 3/18/20: CVUSD announced schools now will be closed through Monday, May 4th. Virtual learning activities will be put in place. Details at conejousd.org/Coronavirus-Health-Safety-Tips-and-Information. (NOW CLOSED THE ENTIRE SCHOOL YEAR)

Local colleges and universities announced virtual instruction plans. CSU Channel Islands, Ventura County Community Colleges (Moorpark, Oxnard, Ventura), Cal Lutheran and Pepperdine.

PARKS, BEACHES AND TRAILS

Conejo Recreation & Park District announced on March 12th that the Goebel Adult Center will be closed starting March 13th and other community centers like the Teen Center, Borchard Community Center, Hillcrest Center, CLU Community Pool, etc., will be closed starting March 14th until further notice. CRPD leagues and classes will be cancelled as of March 14th until further notice. UPDATE 3/20: Most spring events and classes are cancelled or postponed.

  • 3/30/20: All trails and playgrounds as a reminder are closed until further notice.

  • As 4/1/20: CPRD has closed the Borchard Skatepark, all tennis courts, pickleball courts, basketball courts and the pump track/bike park and beginners’ bike pump track at Sapwi Neighborhood Park. PICKLEBALL COURTS, TENNIS COURTS AND DISC GOLF REOPENED AS OF 4/20. SOCIAL DISTANCING, NO GATHERING, NO HANGING OUT IS CRITICAL

  • As of 4/2/20: CRPD has closed the Conejo Creek Dog Park, off-leash areas at Estella, Kimber and Walnut Grove Parks and all volleyball courts. THESE ARE REOPENED AS OF 4/20

  • 4/29: Conejo Valley Botanic Garden is now open weekdays only. Parking lots closed. Wear masks and be sure to socially distance.

CRPD Virtual Recreation Center: www.crpd.org/virtual-recreation-center

City of Agoura Hills Community Services Department announced on March 12th that all upcoming programs and recreation facilities will be closed until further notice. Additionally, as of March 20th, all park playgrounds and restrooms in Agoura Hills are closed until further notice. Park open space and walking paths will remain open.

Pleasant Valley Recreation & Park District announced as of March 14th, all indoor facilities (Senior Center, Community Center, etc) are closed and activities, classes, leagues are cancelled and special events are cancelled through the end of April. PVRPD parks will remain open but they remind us to adhere to the 6 foot social distancing guidelines.

As of 4/2/20: Camarillo Grove Park and hiking trails open 7am-5pm. All neighborhood and community parks are open, but playgrounds and fitness equipment are off limits. Dog parks at Mission Oaks and Springville open 7am to dusk. Updates at pvrpd.specialdistrict.org/updates. Camarillo Grove Park will be Closed April 11 & 12 (Saturday & Sunday) in an abundance of caution for Easter weekend gatherings and will re-open on Monday (April 13).

Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District announced all meetings and events, activities and facilities (community centers, pool, Strathearn Historical Park, Santa Susana Train Depot, etc.) are closed as of March 14th. UPDATE 5/15: Most activities and events cancelled through June 30th. Facilities closed through May 31st. Updates by RSRPD to be posted at rsrpd.org.

RSRPD parks, trails, public restrooms and other outdoor spaces remain open, but playground structures, equipment, tennis courts, volleyball courts, basketball courts, etc. are closed through at least May 31st.

On March 22nd, due to overcrowding of trails and folks not consistently practicing six foot social distancing, the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority closed all trails in the Santa Monica Mountains within its jurisdiction. Some of those closest to the Conejo Valley include Happy Camp Canyon in Moorpark, Las Virgenes View Park, Zev Yaroslavsky Las Virgenes Highlands Park, Triunfo Creek Park, King Gillette Ranch, Rocky Peak Park in Simi Valley and Upper Las Virgenes Canyon Open Space Preserve.

On March 22nd, the National Park Service closed Solstice Canyon Park due to overcrowding. Other NPS locations will also be closed if proper social distancing is not maintained by trailgoers.

On March 24th, the National Park Service announced it has temporarily closed parking areas at all Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area parking areas. They have not closed off day use access to the trails to mitigate crowding. UPDATE: On April 1st, the National Park Service announced that trails in Ventura County will be closed from 2 pm on Fridays until 6 am on Mondays until further notice. These trails include Rancho Sierra Vista (including the Wendy Trailhead), Circle X Ranch (including Sandstone Peak, Mishe Mokwa, etc.), Cheeseboro Canyon and Deer Creek.

NPS UPDATE 5/8/20: TRAILS MANAGED BY THE NPS IN THE SANTA MONICA MOUNTAINS WILL BE BACK OPEN ON WEEKENDS EFFECTIVE 5/9/20, INCLUDING PARKING LOTS (EXCEPTION: SOLSTICE CANYON). Visitor centers at King Gillette Ranch and the Satwiwa Native American Cultural Center will continue to be closed.

On March 24th, Conejo Open Space Conservation Agency (COSCA) announced parking at most trails will be closed off and that if excessive crowding and loitering at local trailheads continues, we risk losing access to them.

On Friday, March 27th, COSCA announced that all trails in the Conejo Open Space will be closed until further notice. This followed the announcement that all trails, beaches, beach bike paths and piers in Los Angeles County are closed March 27th though April 19th (subsequently extended to May 15th). UPDATED 4/20 AND 5/9 - SEE BELOW

COSCA UPDATE 4/20: COSCA announced today it will reopen trails from 6am to 6pm weekdays (5pm on Fridays), closed from 5pm Friday to 6am Monday. Parking lots and other facilities will remain close. Folks must practice social distancing and not congregates in groups of more than 5 or we risk losing access again to the trails. They ask that you walk to a local trail rather than drive to one. Masks are encouraged, but not required, nor a substitute for proper social distancing.

COSCA UPDATE 5/8: Trails in the Conejo Open Space will reopen on weekends starting tomorrow.

Effective March 31st, all California State Parks in Los Angeles County are closed. The parking lots of ALL 280 state parks are closed. Point Mugu State Park and San Buenaventura State Beach is also now closed to all use (as of 4/1/20). Details at www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=30355. Additionally, effective April 8th, Emma Wood State Beach and Mandalay State Beach are closed. UPDATE 5/15: Point Mugu State Park and Sycamore Cove beaches open but parking lots remain closed. UPDATE 5/15: Malibu Creek State Park is open but parking is limited to lower lot. Rock Pool and Century Lake are closed. UPDATE 5/23: Parking lots at Point Mugu State Park have reopened.

Effective April 1st, all parks and beaches in the City of Ventura were closed until further notice in order to support the urgent need for physical distancing during the COVID-19 emergency period. This includes the Promenade, Pier, and Wastewater Treatment Plant wildlife ponds. City Council voted on April 20th to re-open beaches (including promenade area) and parks on a LIMITED basis for active use only. Playgrounds, parking, facilities to remain closed. EFFECTIVE 5/29, Ventura beaches are also available for “passive” use as long as social distancing takes place and large groups do not congregate.

Westlake Village Dog Park is closed March 9th through May 1st for the annual turf renovation project.

City of Port Hueneme closed Hueneme Beach April 1st. However, the beach is reopened April 18th but only for individual exercise and activities like walking, running, surfing, etc. The pier, playground, restrooms, etc. continue to be closed.

City of Oxnard beaches and parks have remained open. Park restrooms, parking lot, athletic courts, skateparks, playgrounds, dog parks, etc. are closed.

VENUES AND BUSINESSES

B of A Performing Arts Center Thousand Oaks is announcing cancellations and rescheduled performances at https://www.facebook.com/bapactoaks

The Moorpark Active Adult Center is closed until further notice, beginning March 13th.

The LA Zoo is closed through at least March 31st (UPDATED TO MAY 15TH)

Many, if not most, or perhaps even all local area museums will be closed for extended periods.

AMC Theatres has announced is closed for 6 to 8 weeks

The Santa Barbara Zoo will close effective March 17th until further notice.

Old Mission Santa Barbara was still open (as of 3/14) for self-guided tours 9am to 5pm. However, all docent-led tours are cancelled through April 30th. UPDATE 3/20: All tours closed through at least March.

America’s Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College is closed to the public and there will be no shows through April 12th. Zoo birthday parties are canceled until April 18th at this time.

The Reagan Library and all Presidential Libraries across the country will be closed until further notice.

Ventura County Library branches will remain open (as of 3/14). Library programs and events are cancelled or postponed until further notice. UPDATE: All branches are now closed until further notice.

City of Moorpark announced the Moorpark Library will be closed until further notice, the Active Adult Center will be closed until further notice and recreational programs and events are cancelled through the end of April.

Simi Valley Library is closed March 14th to at least April 3rd, or until further notice.

Camarillo Public Library is closed until further notice.

All Los Angeles County Libraries, including the local Westlake Village and Agoura Hills branches, will be closed until the end of March (UPDATE: UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE). All programs have been cancelled.

All Southeast Ventura County YMCA facilities in the Conejo Valley are closed through March and beyond.

Los Robles Greens reopened on April 19th.

MUNICIPALITIES

Agoura Hill City Hall is closed to the public effective Monday, March 16th and all upcoming city events scheduled will be cancelled or rescheduled.

The City of Thousand Oaks has announced a formal state of emergency to help prepare to slow transmission of the virus. The T.O. and N.P. Libraries will be closed through March.

Guidance issued by the White House on March 16th calls for closure of restaurants, gyms, food courts, bars and other venues where groups of people congregate in states with evidence of community transmission.

Where to Find Ventura County Emergency Updates on Thomas Fire in Ventura County

The Thomas Fire as seen from the Conejo Valley (Photo Credit: L. David Irete).

The Thomas Fire as seen from the Conejo Valley (Photo Credit: L. David Irete).

The Thomas Fire was first reported on Monday night around 6:30 p.m. in Santa Paula, in the vicinity of Steckel Park and Thomas Aquinas College near the 150 (Ojai Road). Due to gale force Santa Ana winds, the fire spread quickly overnight to over 55,000 acres in less than 24 hours in Santa Paula, Ojai and Ventura.

As of Tuesday night, December 5, the "Thomas Fire" has burned over 150 structures, including the Hawaiian Village Apartments in Ventura

Governor Brown declared a state of emergency in Ventura County today as a result of the fire. (He also issued an emergency proclamation today for the Creek and Rye fires in Los Angeles County.) 

Text the United Way of Ventura County at UWVC to 41444 to donate to Thomas Fire victims; 100% of the donations will go directly to those affected by the fires.

Schools have been closed Tuesday in Ventura County and on Wednesday the following schools are slated for closure due to the wildfires:

  • CSU Channel Islands
  • Nearly all K-12 schools in Ventura County, including Conejo Valley USD, Fillmore USD, Moorpark USD, Ojai USD, Pleasant Valley SD, Santa Paula USD, Ventura USD, Simi Valley USD, Oxnard Elementary and Union High School Districts and other schools listed at www.vcoe.org.
  • UPDATE: The following districts will be closed the rest of the week (12/7-12/8): Briggs Elementary School District, Hueneme Elementary School District, Mesa Union Elementary SD, Mupu Elementary SD, Ocean View Elementary SD, Ojai USD, Oxnard Elementary SD, Oxnard Union HS District, Pleasant Valley SD, Rio Elementary SD, Santa Clara Elementary SD, Ventura USD.
  • UPDATE: As of 2:30PM 12/6, school is planned for Simi Valley and Conejo Valley Unified School Districts.

Here's where to go for updates:

First and foremost, visit readyventuracounty.org for updates, mandatory evacuation areas, voluntary evacuations, evacuation shelters, school closures, road closures and other information.

If you are a Twitter user, the Ventura County Fire Department Public Information Officer provides periodic updates via Tweets at twitter.com/VCFD_PIO. The VCFD Twitter page also provides updates and some useful "Retweets" from other sources at twitter.com/VCFD.

Local area newspaper sites have Twitter and Facebook feeds that may come in handy:

Among TV news sites, I've found ABC 7 to have some great coverage abc7.com.

Subscribe to VC Alert, a free serviced utilized by all 10 cities in Ventura County as well as unincorporated areas for emergency updates. Text VCALERT to 313131 to register.

Cal Fire posts updates on its site at www.fire.ca.gov/current_incidents.

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Programs in Ventura County

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The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program educates people about disaster preparedness for hazards and trains them in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. Using this training, CERT members can assist others in their neighborhood or workplace following an event when professional responders are not immediately available to help. CERT members also are encouraged to support emergency response agencies by taking a more active role in emergency preparedness projects in the community.

The Ventura County Fire Department in coordination with FEMA have joined together to assist local residents with disaster preparedness education and training. Visit the VCFD CERT Facebook page by clicking here.

GET YOURSELF TRAINED! IT'S FREE! AND YOU COULD HELP SAVE LIVES IN AN EMERGENCY!

CLICK HERE for a schedule of upcoming CERT classes in Ventura County.

CERT training programs throughout Ventura County and adjacent areas:

Ventura County Recognizes September as National Preparedness Month

September is National Preparedness Month and the County of Ventura is joining the nationwide effort to encourage individuals, families, businesses and organizations to prepare for emergencies by getting a kit, making a plan, staying informed and getting involved in their local community.

At 10:00 a.m. on September 10, 2013, the Ventura County Board of Supervisors will proclaim September as National Preparedness Month in Ventura County.

Preparedness is important because in the event of a local emergency, Ventura County residents may need to be self-reliant for at least three days without access to electricity, water service, or food. “Being prepared is a shared responsibility and everyone should do their part,” said Kevin McGowan, Assistant Director of the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services. “Emergencies will happen, so I urge residents to be proactive and get prepared before disasters strike”.

Ventura County residents can take simple steps to be better prepared for disasters by making an emergency supply kit, developing a family communications plan, staying informed of the local hazards and getting involved in our community.

CLICK HERE for an Emergency Supply List.

For more information on how to be better prepared, visit the Ready Ventura County website at www.readyventuracounty.org as well as on Facebook (www.facebook.com/ReadyVC) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/ReadyVC) for weekly preparedness tips, news and events.