Residence Hall Safety

While the University takes every precaution to ensure the safety of all building occupants, listed below are some self-help tactics to survive a fire: Remember these simple Do's and Don’ts.

If you are alerted by the sound of a fire alarm, this indicates a MANDATORY evacuation:

• Don't sit up, but instead, roll out of your bed onto the floor.
• Stay low and crawl to the door.
• Before you open the door, feel the door and knob using the back of your hand for heat.
• If the door is not hot, open it slightly and visually survey the hall for smoke and fire from the safety of your room.
• If heavy smoke and/or fire is visible remain in your room and call 852-6111 or 911.  Be sure to provide the building name, street address, and room number where you are located.  Seal out smoke around the door with clothes or blankets and remain calm until rescued.
• If smoke or fire is not visible, stay low while feeling along the wall until an exit door is located.  Ensure you are familiar with at least two directions of travel to reach an exit point.
• Once the exit is located, leave the building and call 852-6111 or 911 immediately.  Be sure to provide the building name and street address.
• Do not re-enter the building until authorized safety personnel give an "All Clear".

Remember the following fire safety tips:

• The practice of plugging several extension cords together, referred to as "Daisy-Chain", is a fire hazard and strictly prohibited.
• Use of power strips equipped with an internal circuit breaker is preferred.
• Never cover light bulbs with paper, clothing, or other combustible materials.
• Candles and other open-flame devices are strictly prohibited.
• Smoking or vaping is strictly prohibited.
• Torchiere halogen lamps are strictly prohibited.
• Charging and storage of Lithium-Ion battery powered devices such as power boards, scooters and bicycles is strictly prohibited.