Below are the rules and regulations to prevent fires on campus. Violators may be held accountable through the judicial system and are subject to a $500 fine.

Rules and Regulations

  • Candles, incense, and flammable materials are not permitted in the residence halls. If a resident is found with a candle or incense, the item will be confiscated and thrown out.
  • Christmas trees and plants over two feet in height and width are not permitted.
  • Excessively large tapestries, wall hangings, and netting of any sort are prohibited within the halls. These items cannot be used for decoration, both on ceilings and from the wall.
  • The hallways and egresses of residence halls must be clear at all times.
  • State fire regulations require that all paths of exit, including corridors and stairwells, be kept free of obstructions. This includes, but is not limited to mats, laundry racks, shower caddies, shoes, and sporting equipment. Residents responsible for leaving objects in egresses and hallways will be subject to a $25 fine per item.

Fire Emergency and Fire Drill Procedures

In case of an alarm, students should touch the door to feel if it is hot and look under the door for any smoke seeping in. If it is safe to evacuate, leave the building immediately by way of the nearest exit. Assemble outside away from the building, not in the parking lots, as these must be kept clear for fire equipment. Do not re-enter the building until the fire personnel deems it safe for re-entry.

To the extent that personal safety permits, the Residence Life staff assists students with evacuation; however, it is the sole responsibility of the student to evacuate whenever an alarm sounds. Any student who does not leave a building when an alarm sounds is subject to a $100 fine.

False Alarms

Tampering with fire alarms, fire extinguishers, or other fire equipment can endanger the lives of fellow students as greatly as setting a fire. Students found responsible for causing a fire, activating an alarm unnecessarily, or using any other fire equipment unnecessarily are subject to immediate suspension from housing, potential expulsion from the university, a $500 fine and may face further sanctions in accordance with state and federal law.