Emergency Preparedness

Through the Emergency Preparedness and Physical Security programs, the Riverside County Office of Education (RCOE) works with districts; city and county law enforcement and fire departments; state and federal agencies to develop and implement emergency and physical security plans, protocols, and procedures.

Schools in Riverside County are faced with a wide range of emergency concerns, from natural disasters to rare criminal incidents. The focus of the emergency management and physical security program is the safety and security of students and staff in schools throughout the county.

This is accomplished through individual school emergency plans; RCOE’s emergency operation plans and response; staff training and drills, countywide interoperable communications, physical and electronic security systems.

Upon request, our team may respond to school districts or county agencies to perform emergency management functions.

School Closures

Riverside County Office of Education (RCOE) works closely with our schools in all 23 districts and the Riverside County Emergency Management Department's Emergency Operations Center.

Emergency school closures can result from events caused by, but not limited to, public health orders, floods, wildfires, mud and debris flow evacuations, air quality, unplanned power outages, or as a result of a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS).

• For active events in Riverside County, visit RivCo Ready Active Events

• Sign up for ALERT RIVCO for emergency alerts in your neighborhood

Parents and students are encouraged to check their respective school districts' websites for additional updates.

Alerts / Advisories

The National Terrorism Advisory System provides timely, detailed information on terrorists threats. Please reference the NTAS Website for real-time advisories.

The Great California ShakeOut

Each year, millions of people across the United States and around the world practice how to “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” in The Great ShakeOut, the world’s largest earthquake drill.  All K-12 schools and districts are encouraged to participate! 

Visit Official California ShakeOut Website to find out how to prepare and respond.

What we do now will determine what our lives will be like after an earthquake. The ShakeOut drill will occur in homes, schools, and businesses throughout California.

The Riverside County Office of Education encourages all schools, colleges, individuals, and families to sign up and participate. Register now and join us in practicing earthquake safety.