Be prepared when extreme weather impacts campus operations
Extreme weather can arrive quickly. Whether it’s snow, ice, or freezing rain, VCC is committed to your safety and well-being. This guide explains how campus decisions are made and where to find trusted updates, so you can plan ahead with confidence.
Check vcc.ca/alerts for live updates. If there’s no alert banner, campuses are open as scheduled.
FAQs
Understanding your role when classes or services shift. When a campus closes, it’s done with caution and care. Here’s what to expect:
- Online students: Classes continue as scheduled
- On-campus students: Your instructor will contact you with updates
- Instructors: Decide whether to move your class online or reschedule
- Remote employees: Continue working unless directed otherwise
- On-site employees: Work remotely if possible and consult your supervisor
Safety is always the first priority. The director of safety and security monitors forecasts, transit service, and road conditions before making decisions.
Timing matters. Here’s when we aim to inform you:
- By 6:30 a.m. for morning or all-day closures
- By 11:30 a.m. for afternoon closures
- By 3:30 p.m. for evening closures
Staying in the know is easy. Here’s where you’ll find closure notices and urgent weather alerts:
- VCC homepage: Look for the alert banner
- VCC Alerts: Sign up for instant email or text notifications
- Social media: Updates posted to X (@myVCC), Instagram (@myvcc), Facebook, and LinkedIn
- Local media: Listen for alerts on CKNW 980 AM or News AM 1130
- Phone line: Call 604.871.7000 for a recorded message
Winter safety tips
Use your best judgment—road conditions vary. Even when the college is open, conditions may differ depending on your location. If you don’t feel safe travelling, notify your instructor or supervisor.
Campus conditions can change quickly. Use these precautions to stay safe:
- Non-slip footwear (avoid leather or plastic soles)
- Warm layers and visible outerwear
- Backpacks with straps to keep hands free
- Walk slowly with short steps
- Keep hands free for balance
- Avoid texting or rushing
- Use handrails and cleared paths
- Uncleared or blocked-off areas
- Carrying heavy or large objects
- Taking shortcuts across snowbanks
- Main entrances, stairs, egress paths, and interior walkways
- City sidewalks
- Parking lots, loading zones (may be delayed)
- Use building entrances that are cleared first
- Report icy areas to Facilities
- Use walk-off mats to reduce slips
Stay safe and take care during winter weather. Your well-being comes first.
Need support or to report an issue
Reach out to VCC Security or Facilities:
- Security: Yellow phones or 604.871.7000 ext. 4444
- Facilities: 604.871.7000 ext. 8555 or myfacilities@vcc.ca