On October 26th, PG&E has shutdown the power for the second time in the span of two weeks, with the hopes of preventing wildfires in the area.  However, Ironically, there have been a total of four fires since, one of which took place in Lafayette -- which is fairly close to campus.

We want to cancel classes until conditions are better and the power outage series are over, because: 

1. Air Qualities are poor, and will get worse with the wind bringing in the smoke from the Kincade, Burris, Martinez and Lafayette fires. This can be very harmful for students who have respiratory problems.
2. There are plans of another power outage on Tuesday(October 29) through Wednesday(October 30).
3. There is only one road to and from campus, that is surrounded by trees.  If there were to be a forest fire, students and staff are practically stuck
4. Gas stations around campus and in affected areas are close -- Meaning that commuter students won't be able to fill their tank, risking them getting stranded in their commute (especially since many come from areas up to 30 miles away.)
5. A portion of the student population come from places that are currently evacuated due to the Kincade fire in Sonoma and Burris fire in Martinez. With this in mind, it's much ideal for them to cope any loss with their family rather than being stressed out by class material
6. In addition to the last point, the Kincade fire is currently growing, with unpredictable information as to where it's going to spread next. With this in mind, students who live around the area are unsure whether they need to evacuate next.

We are not trying to find an excuse to skip class, but rather for you all to understand that these are harsh environments considering our location and current situation. Students would be safer with their families are in a healthier environment for both their mental and physical health-- rather than on campus where they're forced to be at until their next class.