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Fire Safety

Fire Safety Systems - Clare Hall

Smoke detectors are located in each residence room, as well as in hallways and lounges. All smoke detectors in sleeping rooms are hard-wired, with a battery backup. Smoke detectors in public areas are battery operated. There are pull stations in the hallways. The fire alarms emit loud sounds. Any student requiring strobe lights may request to live in Assisi Hall. Fire extinguishers are located in key locations around the residence halls. Residence hall staff, security staff, and physical plant staff are instructed in their use. During their nightly rounds, residence life staff members check to insure they are properly charged, and report any issues promptly.

Fire Safety Systems - Assisi Hall

Smoke detectors are located in each residence room, as well as in hallways and lounges. All smoke detectors in residence rooms are hard-wired, with a battery backup. When the smoke detectors and pull stations in Assisi Hall are activated, the fire department is automatically notified. The Assisi Hall fire system has strobe lights in addition to the standard alarm sound. There are pull stations in the hallway. Assisi Hall is equipped with a sprinkler system. The hall has a PA system that can be used to give residents instructions. Fire extinguishers are located in key locations around the residence halls. Residence hall staff, security staff, and physical plant staff are instructed in their use. During their nightly rounds, residence life staff members check to insure they are properly charged, and report any issues promptly.

Fire drills

Fire drills are scheduled annually in cooperation with the North Shore Fire Department.

Fire Safety Education and Training

Each year, residents are reminded of fire safety through their all hall meetings, during which a fire safety video is shown. Resident assistants are annually trained in emergency procedures, including fire emergencies.

Fire Log

  • 2017 There were no residence hall fires in 2017.
  • 2018 There were no residence hall fires in 2018.
  • 2019 There were no residence hall fires in 2019.
  • 2020 There were no residence hall fires in 2020.
  • 2021 There were no residence hall fires in 2021.

Evacuation Procedures

Students who see or smell fire are urged to stay clear of the fire, pull the fire alarm, evacuate using the stairs (never the elevator) and call 911, then campus security at 410-4220. People who hear the fire alarm are required to evacuate. To do otherwise not only creates a safety issue, but leaves one vulnerable to disciplinary and legal action. If you hear the fire alarm, feel your room door. If it is hot, open the door slowly, leading with something other than your body, to determine if it is safe to evacuate. If you cannot safely evacuate, put a towel under the door (wet with water if possible), call 911, and signal for help. Waving something bright out the window, like a red shirt, will help to attract the attention of rescuers.

If you can safely evacuate, proceed to the nearest exit, using the stairwell. Feel all doors before opening them. Stay low, because hot air and noxious gases tend to rise. If you must crawl through smoky areas, or the building is dark, keep one hand along the wall to avoid disorientation. Once you have exited the building, maintain a safe distance, taking care to avoid emergency vehicles that may be moving rapidly. Please remain nearby until someone in authority has determined that you have been safely evacuated. Do not re-enter the building until you are given the "all clear."

Policy on portable electronic appliances, smoking, and open flames

Open flames, smoking, candles, incense, flammable liquids, and halogen lamps are not permitted in the residence hall. Microwaves are not permitted in student rooms, with the exception of the small ones found on microfridges. Refrigerators must be no more than 4.0 cubic feet. All appliances must be UL approved. Microwaves are available on each residence hall floor. A kitchen is available in each residence hall. Residents are required to remain in the respective area while items are cooking.

Smoking is not permitted on campus, except for in one's personal vehicle.

Future Fire Safety Improvement

The University has been working closely with the North Shore Fire Department to come up with a plan to update the fire alarm notification system throughout all campus buildings. Approximately 90% of the engineering work has been completed. When funding to implement this project becomes available we will begin the two to three year purchase and installation portion of the project.