Fire Safety & Prevention

The electrical distribution in some areas/spaces on campus is limited; therefore, it is important to follow strict adherence to the rules for appliances (pursuant to your housing contract and University policy). Any fire safety deficiencies should be reported to Facilities Services immediately. DPS uses this opportunity to call attention to common hazards and risks to avoid:

  • Smoking is prohibited in all buildings on campus and is only permitted in designated (exterior) areas (Cuvilly and Kerby parking lots).
  • Dispose of cigarettes properly: be sure they are completely extinguished and do not discard them near grass, mulch, buildings and other areas where they can smolder.
  • Do not overload electrical circuits or outlets.
  • Use a power strip with an overload protector.
  • Check your electrical cords for worn places and broken installations.
  • Do not use space heaters.
  • Do not smoke or use other combustible items such as candles and incense.
  • Do not staple or connect multiple extension cords together or route cords under doors or carpet.
  • Use only the recommended light bulbs with the appropriate wattage for your lamp and other peripheral device.
  • Make sure that all appliances are turned off at night and whenever you leave your room.

The following items are strictly prohibited from campus residential facilities:

  • Candles, oil lamps, incense, or open flame of any kind
  • Halogen lamps
  • Air conditioners (except those provided by Trinity)
  • Alcohol, turpentine, paint thinner, or other flammable materials
  • Fireworks and sparklers
  • Cooking equipment of any kind
  • Electrical equipment as indicated above

Building Fire Alarm Activations

In accordance with the Building Officials Code Administrators International, Inc. (BOCA) National Fire Prevention Code, it is mandatory procedure during a fire alarm activation (as evidenced by an audible alarm) for all occupants to exit the building. Upon complete evacuation, and until such time that emergency responders identify the cause of the activation and render the building “all clear for re-entry”, it must be assumed that an actual fire exists in the building. Displays of disregard for the expeditious and orderly evacuation of a building during a fire alarm activation may result in injury or loss of life, or penalties imposed on the institution. It is the expectation that members of the University community value the importance of this responsibility and as such, respond consistently with compliance.

What should I do when the emergency alarm sounds?

Without exception, all building occupants must:

  • Immediately stop what you are doing and evacuate the building;
  • Exit the building using the nearest stairway. Persons with disabilities should remain in the “safe area” at the stair landing, until emergency response personnel arrive to aid in their evacuation;
  • Do not use elevators ;
  • When exiting the building and passing by rooms/areas that are still occupied, inform individuals that they must evacuate the building immediately; knock on closed doors and call out “fire alarm” to alert possible occupants ;
  • Once you have exited the building, report to the designated assembly area, which accounts for safe distance from the building;
  • Do not attempt to re-enter the building until the “all clear command is given by police or fire personnel on scene. A silenced alarm is not to be interpreted as an “all clear” signal.